Frank Sanders’ Obituary

Reverend Frank W. Sanders – 87 

February 19, 1930 – November 7, 2017

Beloved Husband of Blanche L. Barrs

Devoted Father of Paul E. Sanders (Diane) & David F. Sanders (Mary)

Loving Grandfather of Lindsay Sanders & Lauren Sanders

Loving Brother of Paul M. Sanders (Janice)

Proudly Served in United States Navy – 1950-1954

Frank W. Sanders and his wife Blanche devoted their lives to the leadership of The Center in Palos Park, Illinois.  Frank served as Assistant Director there from 1958 – 1964.  He received a Master’s Degree in Labor & Industrial Relations from the University of Illinois and went on to receive a Master’s Degree in Theology from the University of Chicago.  He was ordained through the United Church of Christ in 1966.  Frank went on to serve as Executive Director of The Center from 1964 – 1973.  In 1973 Frank, Blanche, and their two sons moved to Colorado where Frank became a successful realtor, residing in Longmont, Colorado.  In 1983 the Board of Trustees of The Center asked Frank and Blanche to consider coming back, as The Center was going through extremely difficult times.  They agreed that this was their true calling in life and moved back in 1983.  Frank served as Executive Director of The Center from 1983 – 2000 and as Spiritual Director of The Center from 1983 – 2008.  Frank loved horses and frequently took horseback riding trips all over the Midwest, Colorado, and Monument Valley, Arizona.  He was well known for his tremendous hugs and welcoming spirit.  He was a giant of a man in personality, stature, determination, and loyalty to his family and all who knew him.

Frank passed away peacefully with his family by his side on November 7, 2017

In lieu of flowers memorial gifts may be made to the Frank Sanders Memorial Fund of The Center.

Memorial visitation from 2:00 pm until time of service at 4:00 pm, Saturday, November 25, 2017, at The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, Illinois 60464.  Internment private.  (708) 361-3650
Please note that we anticipate a large turnout for Frank’s service.
Only those with handicapped placards will be able to park in the upstairs lot.
We anticipate the lower lot will fill up quickly.
The main parking area will be the Children’s Farm parking lot:
  • All those who park in the Children’s Farm lot will have door-to-door shuttle service from your car to the Lodge and back. It’s the fewest steps to the service!
  • Shuttles will run both before and after the service.
Other considerations:
  • Walking across the bridge from the Children’s Farm lot is an option for those who are able to do so.
  • Please consider carpooling.
  • Sunset will occur before the conclusion of the service, so again, the Children’s Farm lot using the door-to-door shuttle is by far the best bet for parking.
Many of you have expressed an interest in helping with the service. Thank you! One huge way to help is to carpool and park in the Children’s Farm parking lot.
The service starts at 4 p.m. with visitation starting at 2 p.m. We expect the service to be very well attended, so please plan accordingly.
Love,
The Center Family