Robert "Bear" Sanderson

HAWARDEN, IOWA ~ Robert “Bear” Sanderson passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 29th surrounded by his wife and kids.

Visitation with the family present will be Friday, June 18, 2021, from 5:00 p.m.to 7:30 p.m. at the Porter Funeral Home in Hawarden. A Private Family Memorial Service will be held on Saturday the 19th.

Robert “Bear” Sanderson was born February 27, 1953, to Melvin and Irene (Ganzeveld) Sanderson in Hawarden, Iowa. He married Nancy Anema October 15, 1977, in Ireton, Iowa.

Bob spent the majority of his life farming the family farm and also with his Boyer family on their farms. He enjoyed putting in a hard day’s work and unwinding at the end of the day. Fishing with his friends was also a favorite pastime of his, when he could find the time. (All who know him knows that a fishing license is optional!!) Bob rarely missed an opportunity to play pinochle.

He liked nothing more than visiting his kids and grandkids that he was so very proud of.

Bob is survived by his wife of 43 years Nancy; son Luke (Katie) Sanderson of Ely, Iowa; daughter, Ellie (Brandon) Drescher of Austin, Minnesota; grandkids, Avery and Grady Sanderson and Brecken and Vance Drescher; sister, Ethel (John) Hegeman of Davenport, Iowa; Nancy’s siblings, Doug Anema, Barb and Jack Noteboom, Laura and Bob Jasper, and Tammy and Curt Scott; and many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Melvin and Irene Sanderson; and brothers and their spouses, Ross and Peggy Riepma, Jack and Kathy Riepma, and Bill Sanderson.

Bob really loved trivia and would often share little known facts with others. He will be greatly missed by his family and many dear friends.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a memorial donation to: The Hormel Historic Home Autism Program at 208 4th Avenue NW Austin, Minnesota 55912