Stephen Sanders

1942 - 2026

Steve Sanders died peacefully in his sleep in East Wenatchee, WA. He was born in Portland, Oregon. His life was a beautiful composition of music, faith, and a genuine heart for helping others. He was an accomplished jazz bassist who had the best sense of humor and an infectious laugh.
A graduate of Roosevelt High School in Seattle, Steve's story came full circle when he reunited with his high school prom date and the love of his life, Mary Groff. They found their way back to one another at a coffee shop in 1995 and were married on February 14, 1999. Steve was overjoyed to welcome Mary's daughter and grandchildren into his life, and Mary was so happy to have a son and two more grandkids. Mary and Steve fell in love through their shared love of jazz music and played together often. In earlier years, Steve was married to Jackie Sweeney, and together they welcomed their son, Greg Sanders. Though they mutually divorced, they remained friends, with Jackie remembering him always as a truly lovely man.
Steve's remarkable gift for the bass led him to study under the legendary Ray Brown. Though Steve was far too humble to ever brag, Brown himself spoke of Steve as one of the best students he ever taught-their bond lasted decades, with the two frequently reuniting at venues like Jazz Alley. Steve was an iconic part of the Pacific Northwest music scene throughout the 60s, 70s, and 80s. During these years, he frequently performed with his best friend, drummer Joe Larson, and shared a mutual bond with bassist Rufus Reid.
His career was filled with moments most musicians only dream of: he performed with artists including June Christy, Anita O'Day, Barney Kessel, Herb Ellis, Della Reese, Milt Jackson, Bobby Hutcherson, Alfred and Leslie McEwen, Walt Wagner, Nadine Shante, Julian Patrick, Janis Mann, Woody Woodhouse, Keith McClelland, Jack Brownlow, and George Cables. He appeared as a bassist in the Elvis Presley film Roustabout and performed in the Seattle Seahawks' inaugural band. A respected educator, he shared his mastery as an instructor at the Cornish College of the Arts. Steve also worked for UPS for 22 years as both a delivery and long-haul driver.
In 2010, Steve and Mary wanted a deeper connection to community and a slower pace of life; they chose East Wenatchee. Steve became a deeply involved member of the community. He was a faithful member of Wenatchee Nazarene Church where he was co-leader of Celebrate Recovery, offering support to others in need. He was well loved by his fellow church members, and you would often see Steve at multiple church groups throughout the week. Steve spent time volunteering in Rock Island teaching elementary children how to read. Steve and Mary also played locally for nursing homes and loved to perform at Pybus together.
Steve was an avid sports fan at heart and cheered for local sports, including the Mariners and Seahawks. In the Wenatchee area, he and Mary subbed in the Wenatchee Big Band and enjoyed playing locally with Lynette Westendorf, Jac Tiechner, Rhia Foster, Glenn Isaacson, Suzanne MacPherson, Leslie McEwen, Nancy Zahn, Jeff Sanberg Jr., Kyle Somers, Mike Choman, Mike Conrad, and Dawn McCormick. A true musician at heart, Steve continued to play the bass right up until near the end of his life.
Steve was known for his immense generosity and a gentle nature that made everyone feel at home. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Jay Sanders. Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; his son, Greg Sanders and his wife, Chantel; his stepdaughter, Jenny Adams; his grandchildren, Colin and Stephen Sanders, and LaSheana and Tyson Adams; and a vast circle of extended family and friends who will miss his big smile and his heart.
A celebration of life will be held in the coming months.