Lynne Charles Sanville

Lynn was born on April 29, 1948, in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. In 1967, he came to California for basic training at Fort Ord, near Monterey, and quickly fell in love with the state's weather and beauty. He served 6 years in the National Guard and was honorably discharged.

Lynn turned an old church into The Body Shoppe, Sheboygan's first weightlifting gym. The powerlifters trained in the basement, where the sounds of weights crashing with hundreds of pounds echoed through the building. His gym produced several State powerlifting champions, thanks to the gritty, no-frills atmosphere he cultivated.

On May 24, 1980, Lynn married the love of his life, Sandra (Sandy) Dillinger. The couple decided to start a new chapter together in the Golden State, and in 1981, they made the bold choice to relocate. After a playful moment of opening a map of California, closing their eyes, and letting their finger choose a city, they landed in Modesto—where they settled and called home for the rest of their lives.

Lynn was a hardworking truck driver and a member of the Teamsters Union. He worked in construction with Buteyn Excavating in Sheboygan, where he ran every type of heavy equipment. After moving to California, Lynn worked for several companies, including United Grocers, Ralphs, Teichert Construction and Central Concrete, to name a few.

Outside of work, Lynn had a variety of interests and hobbies that reflected his adventurous spirit and creativity. He was a skilled craftsman, having built an airboat from scratch and restored a classic 1956 Ford F150 truck. Lynn also loved the outdoors—he was an avid duck hunter and fisherman, often spending time with his sons enjoying these passions.

He had a special fondness for exotic birds and raised them as part of his unique collection. His love of nature extended to his yard, where he built a large koi pond and waterfall, collecting rare and beautiful koi fish from Japan. Lynn also enjoyed planting tropical fruits and plants, adding a touch of the exotic to his home.

Lynn’s adventurous spirit was also evident in his love of camping. He owned a tent trailer and took the family on trips all over, embracing the joys of the outdoors. A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, he proudly carried his Midwestern roots with him, often saying “you betcha!”—a phrase that became one of his trademarks.

In addition to his love for the outdoors, Lynn was a passionate Bigfoot enthusiast and a true music lover. He had an extensive knowledge of music and hard rock and could name the bands, members, and even the year songs were released, a talent that amazed those around him.

Lynn loved his family dearly, and one of his greatest joys was spending time with his grandsons. He was known for always bringing smiles to their faces by treating them to Icees—his special way of showing his love and affection. His family was everything to him, and his kindness, humor, and generosity will be cherished by all who knew him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Sandy Sanville; children Brett (Stephanie) Sanville of Hughson, CA, and Scott (Courtney Price) Sanville of Ceres, CA; grandchildren Jaxon Sanville, Bennett Sanville, and the anticipated arrival of Lorelai Grace Sanville in 2025. He is survived by his daughter and grandchildren from a previous relationship: Natasha (Daniel) Marcel, Max, Jax, Cataleya, and Izzy Cerda of Plymouth, Wisconsin.

Lynn is further survived by his siblings: Joan Gabrish of Milwaukee, WI; Thomas Sanville of Sheboygan, WI; Bonnie (Joseph) Geydoshek of Sheboygan, WI; and Glenn (Patricia) Sanville of Fond du Lac, WI

He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Marion (Christianson) Sanville.

The Funeral, Celebration of Lynn’s Life, and Reception will be held at 11:00 AM on November 25, 2024, at the Lakewood Riverside Chapel, 900 Santa Fe Ave, Hughson, CA 95326.