Ronald Everett Sanders

As we walk through life we meet people who inspire us, guide us, and teach us. We never know their full, true impact until we use their guidance and lessons to help others. It is once they've taught us all they know and give us the tools that we need to develop our own methods of teaching, that the ones who truly impacted our lives leave it. These teachers of the older generations went through it, they learned through experiences and lessons given to them and do their best to pass the wisdom down. It then becomes our responsibility to guide, teach, and inspire others and hand our tools down to the next generation. Once we do, we don't fade into the darkness, we become the beacon everyone looks to for help.

Ronald Everett Sanders Jr. was born December 28, 1959 to Ronald Everett Sanders Sr. (Kathy) and Danielle Hornett (Bruce). He grew up in Sparta with his brother, Dustan Sanders (Christine), and later relocated to Walworth County. He attended Wisconsin School for the Deaf in Delavan, WI, where he met his high school sweetheart, Sherry (Carpenter), whom he happily married; with whom he has finally reunited with after 15 long years. The happy pair had 4 wonderful children: Lucas, Jessica, Aaron and Amanda. They were also graced with 13 beautiful grandchildren: Aliyah, Ashlyn, Brennan, Madeline, Haili Jo, Thomas (TJ), Braelyn, Emma, Kayden, Gabriel, Jeqoia Li, Kenzie, and Bryson.

Ron worked for the state of Wisconsin at the Bureau Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing for many years to where he was able to travel and advocate for the deaf community and build a bridge on communication access. He helped the deaf and hard-of-hearing on an individual basis and as a whole, advocating for their rights in the hearing world. He educated deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing alike on the deaf culture, how and when to use an interpreter, deaf rights, and other important topics. He inspired, taught, and guided many individuals by showing support and empowering them. He helped by sponsoring people in AA and NA during their time of need. He shared his stories and life experiences so that others could follow in his footsteps.

Ron cherished his children and grandchildren. He attended sporting events, academic celebrations, and many more. He enjoyed spending time with family, playing board games, card games, or just hanging around chatting. He looked forward to his Friday afternoons with his grandson, TJ, picking him up from school and spending time playing games, eating dinner, and having talks. Ron taught so many people throughout his life how to play RISK and chess. He often held game nights at his home. He welcomed anyone to learn and join. Ron loved to talk about history and politics with anyone who asked. He valued his friends and family so much and would lend a hand, a shoulder and listen anytime. He was often looked at as a second father figure by those who grew to know him and seek his advice. Everyone who knew him loved spending time with him listening to his words of wisdom. An avid Green Bay Packer fan, he organized and ran an annual football pool with friends and family.

Ronald Everett Sanders became the beacon on August 23, 2019. He passed away peacefully in his sleep surrounded by love from his family and friends. The celebration of life service will be at Betzer Funeral Home at 118 S 2nd St., Delavan, WI 53115 on September 1, 2019 from 1:00pm-5:00pm