Barbara Sanders

Barbara “Barb” Bockhorst Sanders, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 2, 2024. Born on February 6, 1939, in Cincinnati, Ohio, Barb was the cherished daughter of Wanda and Richard Bockhorst and sister to Shirley Bikson, Claire Wilferd, and Rick Bockhorst.

Barb shared a remarkable 64-year marriage with her devoted husband, J. Patrick Sanders. Together, they built a close-knit family that includes their children, Brad (Kim) Sanders and Linda Sanders, as well as three granddaughters, Abbey (Josh) Moles, Riley Sanders, and Fallon DeWitt, who brought endless joy to Barb’s life.

A compassionate and dedicated social worker, Barb earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Indiana University and her Master’s in Gerontology from Roosevelt University. She spent her early career serving the elderly in DuPage County, later establishing her own practice, Sanders & Associates, where she supported seniors and their families in the Chicago suburbs for over 22 years. Her work and dedication left a lasting impact on those she served and inspired colleagues and clients alike.

Barb was not only a professional but also a vibrant and social woman. An avid bridge player, a passionate tennis player, a travel enthusiast, and a skilled and creative knitter, she cultivated treasured friendships through her hobbies and pastimes. Barb’s warm spirit and generous heart brought joy and comfort to those around her, and her friendships were a testament to her kindness and loyalty.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Barb’s name to Community Food Share of Louisville, Colorado, an organization she and her husband Pat supported with their time and energy.

Barb’s memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched.