Verne R. Sanford, 86, formerly of Valparaiso passed away Sunday, January 23 in Goshen, IN. He was born September 4, 1935 in Waukegan, IL to Kenneth & Esther (Nickel) Sanford. On August 17, 1958 he married Marie L. Dey, who survives along with their children, Colleen (Donald) Prough of Goshen IN, Keith (Ellen) Sanford of Arizona, Paul (Carole) Sanford of North Carolina, Linda (Jerry) Mader of Michigan & Amy (Robert) Pendowski of Wisconsin, sisters, Delores Brandt of Illinois & Carol Walker of Montana, sister-in-law Sally Dey of Minnesota and numerous grandchildren & great-grandchildren. Children held a special place in Verne’s heart, and he loved encouraging their learning.
Verne attained the education level of PhD and served as a Professor of Mathematics at Valparaiso University for 27 years. He volunteered with Boy Scout Troop 7, Valparaiso Low Vision Support Group, Valparaiso Exchange Club and other organizations. Summers found him running the Dunes Campstore and Dairy Isle along with his children. Hobbies included singing in various choirs, reading, woodworking, fundraising and advocating for handicap accessibility. He was a long-time member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Through it all Marie quietly supported him in various ways, going above and beyond most marriage vows because of Verne’s limited eyesight.
A visitation will be held Saturday from 12:30 – 2 pm at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1700 Monticello Park Dr, Valparaiso with funeral service beginning at 2:00 pm. Memorial donations may be made to Foundation Fighting Blindness or an organization of the donor’s choice.
