Stephen Sanders

Stephen Sanders

Stephen Sanders, 91, of Fredericksburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2026.

Born on May 19, 1934, in New York, Steve moved with his family to Los Angeles shortly after his birth. His father, Colonel Paul Sanders, worked for MGM Studios, and his mother, Margaret Hopper Sanders, had a larger-than-life personality. If you asked Steve about growing up in Los Angeles, he always had a story to share. He delighted in recounting encounters with the actors who played the Munchkins in The Wizard of Oz, a harrowing swim off the Santa Monica Pier that nearly made him "crab lunch," and the time he baffled border officials after losing his keys in Mexico and hotwiring his own car.

Steve studied engineering at UCLA, where he was a member of the crew team. Throughout his life, he remained a devoted fan of UCLA athletics-convinced that all was right with the world when UCLA won.

He worked as an electrical engineer for the Army at Harry Diamond Laboratories, earning the respect of colleagues, many of whom he worked alongside for decades. A lifelong learner, Steve never shied away from thoughtful discussions of religion, history, or politics. He loved both a spirited debate and a well-timed joke. He attended seminary school and took numerous music classes at the Peabody Institute. In Fredericksburg, he was active in the Mary Washington Elder Study program, including teaching classes. He loved to sing and performed with the Fredericksburg Singers and later with the Chamber Chorale of Fredericksburg.

After retiring, Steve devoted himself to family and volunteer service. He volunteered with hospice, sitting with patients so caregivers could rest, and with Friends of the Rappahannock, helping to protect the river where he had spent many fine days canoeing. A loving and devoted grandfather, he was actively involved in the lives of his grandchildren and always ready with wise and encouraging words. In recent years, he often said his two favorite things in the world were chocolate and his grandchildren.

Steve is survived by his wife of 57 years, Helen Sanders; his daughters, Edith Min (Aye Min) and Alyce Finch (George Finch); his grandchildren, Virginia Finch, Esther Min, Elliott Min, Andrew Min, and Benjamin Finch; his older sister, Susan Finch; and many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered in their hearts.

A service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at Covenant Funeral Service, Fredericksburg. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home chapel. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please enjoy some chocolate and raise a toast to a life well lived.

Online guest book is available at covenantfuneralservice.com.