Frederick "Fred" V. Sanders, 86, of Defiance, passed away on Monday, October 1, 2018 at his home in Defiance. He was born on May 29, 1932 to Vern and Charlotte (Michael) Sanders in Defiance. On January 20, 1951 he married Gertrude (Collins) Sanders by Pastor Anthony Drake at the Drake Methodist Parsonage in Sherwood, Ohio. Gertrude preceded him in death on February 28, 2015.

Fred owned Sanders Gulf Station, and he worked for General Motors in Defiance for over 25 years, retiring in 1988. In his spare time he enjoyed sports, camping, working on motors, bird watching, word puzzles, and crafts. He was quite the practical joker, and will be dearly missed by his family and friends. Frederick is survived by his children, Marcia (Mike) McMillen of Defiance, Diana Meyer of London, OH, Lori (Rodney) Buehrer of Stryker, and David (Julie) Sanders of Defiance, and sisters Violet Collier and Donnabell Sargeant. He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, with one on the way. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Gertrude Sanders, brother Victor Sanders, and twin great-grandchildren, Peyton and Miley Buehrer. Visitation will be held from 3-8 pm on Monday, October 8, 2018 at Schaffer Funeral Home in Defiance, and for one hour prior to services at the church on Tuesday morning. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, October 9, 2018 at St. John Lutheran Church in Defiance, with Rev. Donald L. Luhring officiating. Burial will follow the service at Sherwood Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to CHP Defiance Area Hospice Center, or Fort Defiance Humane Society. Online condolences can be given at www.Schafferfh.com.