Don George Sanders

Don George Sanders, 81, a longtime resident of Crystal Lake for over 50 years, passed away peacefully on January 31, 2024. Born in Berwyn, IL, on October 19, 1942, to George and Mildred (Jilek) Sanders.

Marrying his beloved wife, Rosemary Leibert, on November 1, 1983, in Cary, Don nurtured a family that became his greatest joy. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary; children, Elizabeth (Kenny) Godfrey of Springstead, WI, William (Amy) Sanders of Elmhurst, Matthew (Gabrielle) Luehr of Crystal Lake, Stephanie (Bob) Purcell of Park Ridge; grandchildren, Stephanie (Dan) Jackson, Brennan Sanders, Kailey Godfrey, A.J. Luehr, Lauren Godfrey, Griffin Sanders, Tyler Godfrey, Avery Sanders, Bridget, Cecilia, and Eileen Purcell; great-grandchildren, Abby and Teddy Jackson; and his mother-in-law, Marjorie Leibert.

Don was preceded in death by his first wife, Joan Sanders, the mother of William and Elizabeth; his parents, George and Mildred; and his father-in-law, Kenneth Leibert.

A 1965 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Engineering and a member of the Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity, Don worked as an Engineering Manager for UARCO in Barrington for 33 years, immediately following college. He then transitioned to Castle Metals in Franklin Park.

Don made significant contributions to his community through various roles, including Little League Coach, Nation Chief "White Cloud" with Indian Princesses and Indian Guides, a self-taught soccer coach, a devoted AARP volunteer tax preparer, and a volunteer with Senior Services of Crystal Lake. His passion for the Chicago Bears and Cubs was unmatched, as was his support for his grandchildren's sporting events and extracurricular activities.

Don was known for his quiet demeanor, always ready to offer his opinion or advice, particularly to his grandchildren about college and careers. Despite a tough exterior, he was a softie when it came to his dogs and maintained an extensive routine for feeding the birds, an activity his grandchildren cherished participating in.

Visitation will be held on Monday, February 5, 2024, from 4 pm until 8 pm, and will continue on Tuesday, February 6, from 10 am until the service at 11 am, at Davenport Family Funeral Home, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave., Crystal Lake.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to Unity Hospice and Palliative Care, Michael from Amada Senior Care for his compassionate care, and the Russell Family, the wonderful neighbors who have gone above and beyond in their support.

In lieu of flowers please consider a memorial to the American Cancer Society .