SANDERS, Dan Sanders

Passed away surrounded by the love of his family. Dan’s legacy is one of unwavering kindness, generosity, and devotion to his loved ones and community. He is survived by his loving wife Brigid, his children Ted (Tricia) Sanders, Sherry Sanders, Chris (Becky) Sanders and Michelle (Ben) Nichols as well as his adored grandchildren Joey, Maggie, Eric, Josh, Ava, Eli, Brenden, Zach and Ethan. Even his loyal dog, Buddy, will miss his gentle presence. Dan is also survived by his sisters Darlene Horner, Debbie Pattyn (the late Mike), Kim Winton (Paul), Cheryl Ann Vaughan (Derek) and predeceased by his parents Richard Sanders and Marjorie (nee Hurley) and his brothers Ronnie and Mark Sanders.
Dan’s professional life was marked by a successful career as a real estate broker, where his integrity and dedication earned him the respect and trust of clients and colleagues alike. He was a self-made entrepreneur who built his company from the ground up, starting small and with determination, grit and unwavering support from his wife Brigid, he grew that humble beginning into a thriving Remax Real Estate Firm. He dedicated his career to helping families find not just houses, but homes – places where memories could be made and futures could flourish. His work extended beyond his business endeavors, as he was deeply involved in his community through various associations. Dan’s passion for sports, particularly hockey, led him to volunteer with local hockey associations, where his efforts were instrumental in forming the Tillsonburg Vipers, later known as the Tillsonburg Thunder. His commitment to youth sports was evident in his numerous sponsorships of hockey, baseball, and soccer teams, often covering tournament entry fees and children’s registration costs.
In recognition of his substantial contributions, Dan was inducted into the Tillsonburg Sports Hall of Fame in 2024, a testament to the lasting impact he had on the athletic community. Further cementing his legacy of community service, Dan was honored with the Community Builder Award, highlighting his selfless nature and his ability to inspire and uplift those around him.
Dan’s greatest joy and pride, however, were found within the walls of his home and in the hearts of his family. Known for his loving spirit, he nurtured a home filled with warmth and laughter. Even in his hardest moments, he never lost his sharp wit. His sarcastic jokes and perfectly timed humour stayed with him right up to his final days, reminding us all that laughter is a gift worth sharing. His kind heart and generous soul were the cornerstones of his existence, touching the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Dan’s unwavering support and guidance were the foundation upon which his family thrived, and his influence will continue to be felt through the generations.
To describe Dan as loving, kind, and generous only scratches the surface of the man he was. His actions spoke volumes of the character he possessed, and the positive influence he had on others will resonate for years to come. Dan’s life was a testament to the power of love, the strength of family, and the importance of community.
As we bid farewell to Dan Sanders, we do so with heavy hearts but also with a profound sense of gratitude for his remarkable life. His spirit will live on in the memories we cherish and, in the community, he helped shape. Dan’s story is not one of an end, but a beautiful reminder of the difference one person can make when they live their life with an open heart and a helping hand. He will be deeply missed, yet forever remembered for his love and kindness.
Cremation has taken place. The Sanders family invites you to a Memorial visitation on Wednesday December 3, 2025 from 2:00pm until 4:00pm and then 7:00pm until 9:00pm at Ostrander’s Funeral Home, 43 Bidwell Street, Tillsonburg, ON N4G 3T6 (519) 842-5221. A Memorial Service will be held at St. Paul’s United Church, 88 Bidwell Street, Tillsonburg on Thursday December 4, 2025 at 11:00am. Interment will follow at the Tillsonburg Cemetery and a luncheon then will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion Br 153, 16 Durham St., Tillsonburg. Donations in memory of Dan can be made to any animal charity you wish to donate to.