Obituary of Russell Sanders

Russell Sanders, age 91 of the Shults Community, OK passed away on Tuesday, December 3, 2013 at his home. He was born on November 18, 1922 in Idabel, OK the son of Drebon and Verna Dean Jones Sanders. Russell joined the US Army in March of 1943. He proudly served his Country in the European Theater of WWII fighting in Normandy, France and the Rhineland of Central Europe. Russell was the winner of 5 Bronze Stars. He was a successful carpenter and building contractor and built or renovated several of Idabel's homes and buildings. Russell built the First Methodist Church as well as rebuilding the Norwood Funeral Home after it burned in 1959. He raised cattle for several years and also enjoyed growing vegetables in the large garden he put out every year. In his spare time he loved horses and going on trail rides with his friends. Russell was a member of the Shults Baptist Church and was a lifetime resident of McCurtain County. Russell was a loving father and grandfather and was very proud of his children and grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his wives, Evelin Sanders and Jean Sanders. Russell is survived by his sons and daughters-in-law, Roger and Linda Sanders of the Shults Community, OK, Howard and Joyce Sanders of Chickasha, OK and David and Maxine Sanders of Alvin, TX; grandchildren and spouses, Kenneth and Becky Sanders of Bells, TX, Daniel Sanders of Edmond, OK, Jacob and Holley Sanders of Pauls Valley, OK, Stacey Brown of Chickasha, OK, Allison and Justin Magdellini of Oklahoma City, OK, Regina and Blaine Ralston of LaPorte, TX and Bill and Cara Whitworth of League City, TX; great-grandchildren, Kasey Sanders, Brady Sanders, Dylan Magdellini, Mia Magdellini, Taylor Ralston, Lauren Ralston and Kendra Ralston; his dog and loyal companion, Tinshue; several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. Services will be held on Saturday, December 7, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. at the White Family Chapel with Bro. Andy Bowman officiating. Interment will follow at the Denison Cemetery in Idabel, OK. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Friday, December 6, 2013 at the funeral home.