Steven J. Sanders Passed Away Peacefully at Age 75
Steven Jay Sanders, age 75, passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on June 9, 2026.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and friend, Steve leaves behind a legacy of kindness, humility, laughter, and service that touched countless lives throughout the Kaukauna community and beyond.
Early Life and Military Service
Steve was born on February 6, 1951, to Edmond Jay Sanders and Mary Lou (Mauel) Sanders.
He proudly served his country during the Vietnam War era, spending part of his military service stationed in Alaska. His commitment to service and dedication to others remained a defining characteristic throughout his life.
On August 16, 1975, Steve married the love of his life, Donna Lenz, beginning a partnership built on love, respect, and devotion that spanned more than 50 years.
Career and Work Life
Steve began his professional career with Giddings & Lewis, where he developed a strong work ethic and formed many lifelong friendships. He later joined Pierce Manufacturing, where he worked faithfully until retiring at the age of 62.
Throughout his career, Steve earned the respect of coworkers and friends through his reliability, dedication, and willingness to help others. His positive attitude and hardworking nature left a lasting impression on everyone he worked alongside.
A Life of Friendship, Service, and Community
Steve was well known throughout Kaukauna and had a remarkable ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Whether he was driving around town, visiting local businesses, tending bar on Sundays, or simply sharing stories with friends, he never met a stranger.
Known for his quick wit, warm personality, and genuine interest in others, Steve made everyone feel welcomed and valued. A true jack-of-all-trades, he was always willing to lend a helping hand, share his knowledge, or offer support to anyone in need.
Among the many lessons he passed on to his family, one message stood out above all: always stay humble. It was advice he often shared with his grandchildren and one they will carry with them for years to come.
Family Was His Greatest Joy
While Steve enjoyed many interests and friendships, nothing mattered more to him than his family.
He especially cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren, creating memories, sharing stories, and celebrating their accomplishments. An avid fisherman, Steve found peace and happiness on the water and treasured every opportunity to cast a line.
Through both his words and actions, he taught those around him to embrace life, seize opportunities, create lasting memories, and never take a single day for granted. His encouragement to live life to the fullest remains one of the greatest gifts he leaves behind.
Survived By
Steve is lovingly survived by:
- His beloved wife, Donna Sanders
- His daughter, Paula Grissman, and son-in-law, Matt Grissman
- Grandchildren: Brock, Claire, and Blake Diedrick
- Step-granddaughters: Allie Diedrick and Alexus Grissman
- Brother, Scott Sanders and his wife, Joan
- Brother, Paul Sanders
- Sister, Kay Trettin
- Sister-in-law, Mary Ann Marquardt
- Numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, extended family members, and dear friends
Preceded in Death
Steve was preceded in death by:
- His parents, Edmond Jay Sanders and Mary Lou (Mauel) Sanders
- Mother-in-law, Mary Lenz
- Father-in-law, James Lenz
- Sister-in-law, Diane Marquardt
- Brothers-in-law, Gary Marquardt and Dale Marquardt
Celebration of Life
In accordance with Steve’s wishes, a private family ceremony will be held at Verkuilen Van Deurzen Family Funeral Home.
A public celebration of his life will be announced at a later date, where family and friends can gather to share stories, laughter, and cherished memories of a man who made a lasting impact on so many lives.
Acknowledgments
Steve’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff of ThedaCare Regional Medical Center in Appleton, along with the compassionate caregivers of St. Paul Home Hospice, for the exceptional care, comfort, and support they provided during his final days.
Their dedication, kindness, and professionalism brought great comfort to Steve and his loved ones and will never be forgotten.
Forever Remembered
Steve Sanders leaves behind a legacy measured not only by the years he lived but by the countless lives he enriched along the way. He was a man who could turn a simple conversation into a friendship, offer help without being asked, and make everyone feel like they mattered.
Though his family and friends will deeply miss his laughter, stories, wisdom, and presence, they find comfort in the memories he created and the values he instilled. His spirit lives on through the people he loved, the friendships he built, and the community he helped strengthen.
Well known, well loved, and never forgotten, Steve’s legacy will continue to inspire all who knew him.