Donald 'Don' James Sanders, 55

Donald “Don” James Sanders, 55, “went to be with the Lord” on Nov. 13, 2012.

He was born in Mojave, Calif., raised in Oregon, and 14 years ago moved and settled to Whitefish with his family.

Don was exceptionally skilled at many trades during his lifetime; construction, welding, excavating and truck driving.

Don served in the Oregon National Guard, and he served the Whitefish community with volunteering his time at his church and the food bank. He earned his Associate of Arts degree in business at the Flathead Valley Community College.

He loved spending time fishing and hunting, which are skills he also taught his children. Don was a lifetime fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and he also enjoyed watching Nascar. He was a skilled guitar player, and he loved to garden, cook and barbecue.

Don is survived by his loving wife, Valenda Sanders; his children, Earl Sanders and his wife Krista, Emilee Sanders, Monica Sanders, Mandy Lomeli, Elizabeth Hanson, Dan Irby, and Kent Irby and his wife Leanna. Don has 11 grandchildren, and many more family and friends whom he held near to his heart.

Don loved the Lord with all his heart, soul and mind and he loved his friends and neighbors as himself. Don had a quick wit, a tender heart and will be deeply missed.

There will be a celebration of Don’s life at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1 at Whitefish Assembly of God, 1549 Karrow Ave., in Whitefish. Immediately following, there will be a reception with lunch and memories shared.

You are invited to go to www.austinfh.com to offer condolences, share memories and view Don’s tribute wall.