Woodstock, IL – Dennis M. Sanders passed away peacefully, after initially surviving a massive heart attack and then a series of strokes a week later, with his wife and grandog (Rolo) by his side, on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 in the tender services of JourneyCare Care Center in Barrington, IL.

He was the beloved husband for 50 years (July 11) of Patricia, nee Rentfleish, and loving, proud father of Patrick (Danelle Marable) and Ryan. Proud grandpa of grandogs Rolo, Starbuck, and Zeva. He was born on June 26, 1943 to Lillian Olga (Mueller) and Sylvester Charles (“Charlie”) Sanders in Chicago, IL.

He is survived by his loving wife Patricia; loving sons Patrick (P.J.) and Ryan; loving daughter-in-law Danelle Marable; dear mother-in-law Dorothy Finley; dear sisters-in-law Barb (Heuser), Ruth (Lovick), Cindy (Dan Koscinski); fond nephew Ron (Donna) Mikalsen and niece Doreen (Paul) Pennella; many dearly loved nieces and nephews and countless friends.

Graduated from Lakeview High School in Chicago, IL, Lincoln / Belmont / Ashland area. Lived within walking distance of Wrigley Field but was a die-hard Chicago White Sox fan, just like his dad.

He was a loving, caring, unselfish husband and devoted, proud father, always actively participating in and supporting anything his sons were involved with: drums, martial arts, the Marine Corps, soccer, baseball, basketball, baseball card and sports memorabilia shows. He loved family get-togethers and any time he could spend with his wife, sons, and friends. Traveled to Florida, New York, San Diego, Washington, DC, and Boston.

McHenry resident for 30 years, usher and member of Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, community volunteer, Citizens Police member, soccer and baseball assistant coach.

Worked for 56 years until he retired at age 72, shoe salesman, pharmaceutical warehouse worker and forklift driver, Ford service associate, Ace Hardware service counter associate.

He was a member of Health Bridge fitness center in Crystal Lake, Woodstock Rec Center, loved playing bocce ball and bags at the Senior Center in McHenry. He loved watching old movies, listening to rock and roll music, Bees Deluxe, bike riding, swimming, and going for walks.

Started and ended each day in prayer and thanksgiving. Never lost his Faith or Hope, always had a smile on his face. Said “I Love You” every day and meant it. A true survivor who was patient, kind, gentle, a genuinely good person, and a fine human being, a wonderful example to his family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents “Chick” and “Lill” Sanders, his sister Lenore (Lee) and brother-in-law Ron Mikalsen, and his beloved nephew James (Jimmy) Mikalsen.

His ashes will remain in the tender loving care of his “Pat” who will treasure his memory until they are reunited in heaven together again. Miss You Forever, Our Iron Man.