Patrick Ronald Sanders

Patrick Ronald Sanders, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend passed away peacefully on 15, 2024, at his residence. Born on April 6, 1939, in Garnett, Kansas, Patrick dedicated his life to hard work and family, leaving behind a legacy of love.

Pat retired after many years at Delta Airlines, where his diligence and dedication to his customers and co-workers shone brightly. His strong work ethic was a testament to his devotion to providing for his family, enabling his beloved wife, Carmen (Galvez) Sanders, to stay home and care for their children. Their partnership spanned 57 wonderful years, built on love, respect, and unwavering support for one another.

A proud servant of the United States Navy, Pat carried the values of honor and integrity throughout his life. These principles were evident in his nurturing relationships with family and friends. He was not just a husband and father; he was a wonderful role model, always striving to create the best environment for his sons, Eric and Jeffrey, and their families.

Pat's passion for farming led him to cultivate a stunning 156-acre property that became a labor of love. Alongside his sons, he tended to the land, raising cows, and planting over 1,000 peach trees and 250 apple trees in the orchard. He even embraced the joys of creating a vineyard. His farm was a community gathering place where families could harvest the fruits of his labor. Eventually, as circumstances changed, he adapted, building barns and constructing over two miles of fencing to create a horse boarding business. Even after selling the farm, Patrick maintained a special bond with its new owners, occasionally visiting to witness the fruits of his labor flourishing in their care.

Patrick embodied kindness and respect; yet stood firm to his beliefs with a lighthearted spirit. His caring nature extended beyond his family to all who knew him. Those who had the privilege of knowing him will remember his lively sense of humor and many tales with laughter, some true, some not. You would have to figure it out.

He leaves behind his loving wife, Carmen, of Benton, Arkansas; his son, Eric Sanders and daughter-in-law, Joanie of Mayflower, Arkansas; grandsons, Eli and Luke Sanders; sister, Shirley Cross of Oklahoma; niece, Karen Forde Couch of Texas; nephews, Keith Sanders of Missouri and Kent Sanders of Kansas; as well as a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Patrick Ronald Sanders is preceded in death by his son, Jeffrey Sanders; his parents, Orville and Leone (Byers) Sanders; brothers, Jerry Sanders and Richard Sanders (and sister-in-law, LaVeta); and sister, Virginia Clark. 

His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who loved him, a guiding light that will continue to inspire and comfort.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.