Richard T. “Bud” Sanders
June 22, 1954 Oct. 22, 2020
Bud Sanders was born on June 22,1954, in southwestern Missouri. In a life defined by hard work, he was fiercely dedicated to his family. From a young age, when hi s own father suffered a stroke, Bud shouldered the responsibility of caring for, supporting, and protecting his family; he never wavered from those values. A small- business owner, he taught his children the value of fairness, pragmatism, fortitude, and self-sufficiency.
Bud Sanders was an incredibly kind man with a sharp sense of humor and a wicked sweet tooth — especially when it came to peaches.
Bud was always ready to hear a funny story about his grandkids, methodically work through a problem, give a little fatherly advice, or just chat about the weather. His quiet intelligence and willingness to listen made him an invaluable sounding board and a comfort in times of uncertainty.
Bud was fascinated by the workings of the natural world — bringing a quiet excitement that ranged from the newest scientific discoveries about space to teaching his children and grandchildren how to appreciate wildlife, livestock, and the best conditions for growing tomatoes. He loved hunting and fishing. Spending time in the woods and hills with his dogs and friends always put a smile on Bud’s face.
He had a meticulous nature and found satisfaction in doing things right and well. Bud was a deadeye marksman and had a gentle calm with hounds, horses, and cattle. He embraced simple pleasures and laughed easily. He was a rock for his family and a loyal, grounded friend.
Bud met his wife Deborah almost 30 years ago, and although, at times an unlikely pair, they built a life that they were proud of and a relationship that was filled with love, laughter, and comfort.
He taught his daughters to be better parents and humans simply by showing what it means to always be there for someone.
His loss will be felt deeply by all those who knew him, but his legacy will be carried on proudly by his daughters and their families.
Bud is preceded in death by his parents, Don and Kathleen (Delys) Sanders of Spitlog, Mo.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his daughters and sons-in-law, Loel and Shawn Kathmann of Kennewick, Wash., and Megwyn and Jess Sandersof Dousman, Wis.; his stepdaughters and stepsons-in-law, Sarah and Steve Hagedorn of Colorado Springs, Colo., and Erin and Josh Altschule of Kennebunk, Maine, their daughter Sasha; and his grandsons, Crosby Delys, with whom he shared a profound connection, Frazier Delys, who was his fishing buddy and shares his eye color, and his namesake, Richard Bode, who shares his one Vulcan ear.
At Bud’s request, a traditional memorial service will not be held. Bud’s wish was to be cremated and his ashes spread in the woods and hills he loved.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Arc of Tri- Cities through its website www. arcoftricities.com.
PAID OBITUARY