Robert Waller Sanderson of El Paso, TX was called home to the Lord on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at the age of 92. Robert was a believer who loved and respected God. As Jesus Christ was his Savior, he knew where he was going, and his family is blessed to know where he is now. At death, Robert was surrounded by his wife, Jeanne, his children, and many of his grandchildren. Robert was predeceased by his parents, Eugene and Vera Sanderson; his sister, Veragene Stembridge; his brother, Paul Sanderson; and his great-granddaughter, Hope P. Sanderson. He is survived by his lovely bride of 69 years, Jeanne Sanderson; his sons Bryan (Amy) and Brett (Sheri); and his daughter, Brenda (Drey) Anthony. He is also survived by many grandchildren: David (Alice), Robert (Megan), Tanner, Mackenzie (Stephen), Matthew (Samantha), Katherine (Kyle), Paige, and Thomas. To date, there are three great-grandchildren: Mason, Aria, and Sawyer, with a great-grandson on the way.
Robert entered this world in Big Lake, TX, on August 4, 1931, to Gene and Vera Sanderson. The family moved to El Paso shortly after, where Robert attended Crockett Grade School and Austin High School (graduating in 1950). He earned his degree from Texas Western College, where he was an SAE, and following graduation in 1954, served in the United States Army as a Lieutenant. He married Jeanne Elliott on April 11, 1955, and they were stationed in Karlsruhe, Germany. After completing a tour of duty, Robert and Jeanne returned to El Paso, where Robert joined Philip Carey Mfg. Co. as a sales representative for West Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. During this time, he worked with and met many people in the construction industry, which was to set the stage for his next chapter in life. In 1970, Robert entered the residential home building business and started R.W. Sanderson Builder. Eventually, both his sons entered the business, and the Sanderson family has been blessed to work with and build homes for many El Paso families. As a member of the Builders Association, Robert was selected as Outstanding Builder in 1991. Robert’s dream and legacy continue today. Robert was a member of Rotary International for many years; joining in 1972, he served as President of the West El Paso Rotary Club in 1986. Loving aviation, he earned his private pilot certificate at the age of 18 and spent over 40 years advancing the discipline. He also enjoyed the outdoors, especially stream fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. Changing direction in later years, he and Jeanne jumped into the world of motorcoach living, where they traveled the United States and Canada together for many years.
An important part of life for Robert was his church family and Christian fellowship. They enjoyed fellowship at Coronado Baptist Church and their Sunday school class. Robert even attended Sunday school the Sunday before he passed away. Interment will take place on Friday at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at Coronado Baptist Church, 501 Thunderbird Drive, El Paso, TX, on July 20, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Reception following.
