Craig Arthur Sanden

Craig Arthur Sanden, 82, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, after a long illness. He was the devoted husband of Ruth (Roberts) Sanden for 61 years-a partnership built on love, loyalty, and shared adventure. Born on July 20, 1943, in Portland, Oregon, he was the son of the late Theodore and Dorothy (Bouffard) Sanden.
Craig earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Nichols College in Dudley, Massachusetts. A lifelong learner with a deep love of reading, Craig was endlessly curious about the world and proud of being able to figure things out for himself. He worked for, and later acquired, Markal Finishing in 1971, a paper finishing business, and later purchased Tiffany and Pickett, a Winsted corrugated company. True to his entrepreneurial spirit, Craig approached his work with both intelligence and integrity, and today his children proudly continue operating Markal Finishing-a lasting reflection of his dedication and example.
A true jack of all trades, Craig was someone who could fix, build, improve, or help with just about anything. He loved being useful and was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was a big project or a small favor. He took pride in doing things well and found joy in staying busy, learning something new, and helping those around him.
Craig was deeply civic-minded and committed to his community. He served on the Inland Wetlands Commission and as Chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission. He also served on the Board of Directors for both Northwest Community Bank and Winsted Memorial Hospital. Craig believed strongly in giving back and quietly devoted much of his time to supporting the place he called home.
In his younger years, Craig enjoyed sailing and racing sailboats on Columbia Lake, embracing both the challenge and freedom of the water. He also had a love of flying and owned his own airplane, a passion that reflected his adventurous spirit and appreciation for independence.
When Craig and his beloved wife purchased their land and home in Winsted, it became the heart of his life and the foundation of his family's memories. He spent countless hours clearing the land, working outdoors, and riding the tractor with his children. Over time, that property became the cornerstone of the Sanden family, hosting holidays, weddings, celebrations, and everyday moments that will be cherished forever.
Craig was known for his sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor. He loved a good laugh, a clever remark, and sharing stories, and his generous, warm presence made people feel comfortable and welcome. His humor, kindness, and steady support will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
In addition to his wife, Ruth, he leaves his cherished children: Christine (Sanden) Royer and her husband Allen of Winchester; Jonathan Sanden and his wife Paula of Riverton; and Jason Sanden and his wife Sandra of Riverton. He was a proud and loving grandfather to Alec Royer, Christian Royer, Austen Royer, Sydney Sanden, Chase Sanden, Jana Sanden, Hunter Sanden, Colby Sanden, and Justin Sanden. He also leaves his sister, Diane Yohe of Norwalk; many nephews; and his loyal Doberman, Red Baron. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Donna Sorensen.
Friends may call on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Montano-Shea Funeral Home, 922 Main Street, Winsted, from 1:00 to 5:00 PM. An online guestbook is available at montano-shea.com.