Ronald Sanders

Ronald Sanders, 78, passed away on April 17, 2025. He was born on August 16, 1946 to Mary Francis (Miller) and Gerald Sanders. A lifelong resident of Des Moines, Ronald witnessed the many changes and growth his city experienced over the years.

Ronald attended East High School, and while serving in the U.S. Army, he proudly earned his GED. He served from September 1965 to November 1968, stationed at the Gardner Nike Hercules Missile Site in Gardner, Kansas. Before his military service, Ronald met Judith in 1963. They went on to share sixty years of marriage, facing life’s changes and challenges together with strength and commitment.

After his enlistment, Ronald started working as a truck driver. He spent the majority of his career with HW Motor Express, where he worked for thirty years before retiring. Ronald was a teamster and a proud member of Union 147. He also worked as a driver for the City of Des Moines, and transporting elderly or disabled people to their appointments for the City of West Des Moines.

Outside of work, Ronald found great joy in cheering on his beloved Hawkeyes during basketball and football season, as well as rooting for the Chicago Cubs. Like any true baseball fan, he took pride in maintaining a pristine yard—so well kept it could have passed for an infield. Ronald also gave back to the game he loved by coaching Little League Baseball. He coached both of his sons and served on the league's board, dedicating 13 years to mentoring young players.

Each summer, his garden flourished with tomatoes. His passion for the outdoors extended beyond his backyard, often taking him to the water for bass fishing. In his younger days, Ronald also enjoyed the thrill of the open road, taking his ’57 Chevy and ’72 340 Duster out for a few fast drives.

More than anything, Ronald cherished his family—his grandchildren and loved ones were the true highlights of his life. Left to carry on the memory of Ronald are his wife, Judith; his children Aaron (Jennifer) Sanders, and Ronnell (Dan) Little; his grandchildren Cory, Luke, Laura and Ian.

Ronald was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Dennis; his brother, Marland; and his sisters, Judy, Joann, Charlene, Geraldine, and Patricia.

A family-led service will be held Friday, April 25, 2025 at Laurel Hill Cemetery at 12:00 PM.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the Animal Rescue League in honor of Ronald’s life.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com

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