Obituary of Stephen Thomas Sanderson
It is with profound sadness that family announce the death of Stephen Thomas Sanderson at the Saint John Regional Hospital on December 12, 2021 with his loving wife Nancy at his side.
Along with his beloved wife of 33 years Steve will be dearly missed by his sister Géri McLean, brothers-in-law Daryl Lyon (Janet) and Grant Lyon (Jake). He was predeceased by his brother George and sister-in-law Gertrude, his sister Sylvia Mizgala, and his brother-in-law Bud McLean. He will also be greatly missed by ‘chosen’ family Yeslam & Reem and their children Suhaib, Kenzie and Adam, and by many good friends across the country.
Steve grew up in Notre-Dame-de-Grace and despite having lived in 7 provinces and worked in 6 he remained an NDG boy at heart. Although NDG had the greatest influence on his early life, it was his childhood experiences at the family summer cottage on Grippen Lake where loons and bullfrogs and creepers filled the night quiet that impacted much of his perspective regarding what is important and what is simply window dressing. And it was at his beloved Grippen Lake that many an adventure was undertaken with his sister Géri discovering snakes and frogs and the dreaded snapping turtles that of course grew in size as the legendary stories of their sightings were retold over the years. Long live the adventures of Turtle Bay!
An autodidactic, Steve was always reading and learning new things. And for a really good time he liked reading the dictionary! Never short on words he was not only a voracious reader but a prolific writer. He penned many letters to the editor, Op-Eds, essays, insights on recycling initiatives and decarbonization, social commentary, political commentary, poetry and prose … you name it … a true potpourri of subject matter. He had a deep empathy for the less fortunate and chafed against man’s inhumanity to man. Both a social activist and a union activist he was on the front lines of equality issues and the struggle for a more democratic and responsive union. Always principled, he had the steadfastness and fearlessness to speak the truth and suffer the consequences if need be.
Steve was a devoted Habs fan and an avid athlete in his school and college days. He was also a gardener, an art lover, a cyclist and a walker. He marvelled at nature, trees, sunsets and hummingbirds. He loved animals and children. Always curious and inquisitive he loved life! He is now sharing his enthusiasm for life by gifting his corneas to N.B.’s Organ and Tissue Donation Program.
Although there will be no visitation or funeral service a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of Kennebecasis Community Funeral Home, 152 Pettingill Road, Quispamsis (849-2119). As expressions of sympathy donations may be made to Operation Smile or a charity of one’s choice.
Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world, you
You may say I’m a dreamer
But I’m not the only one
I hope someday you’ll join us
And the world will live as one
– Imagine, John Lennon
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Stephen
Thomas
Steve
Sanderson 1950 2021..
Death notice for the town of: Saint John, Province: Nouveau-Brunswick
Nancy—
Steve was a much loved brother in law and respected for his intelligence and fun loving ways. We always enjoyed our times with him and Nancy. He had a great interest in family and their accomplishments besides his worldly interests. Love Janet & Daryl.
I was shocked and saddened to hear about Steve’s passing.
I had the privilege to have worked with Steve and Nancy with our union for over 30 years. He was so intelligent and and worked doggedly to better our workplace. I am glad he had some years to enjoy his retirement. My condolences to Nancy and families.
Nancy
I pass to you a hug from from Geri who is missing Steve as she recovers. You are on a journey but it sounds like the path was set by you and Steve together with your wonderful love of each other. Steve got a wee bit ahead but he will be at the top of the mountain looking down at you as you traverse more of the trail of life.
I am so sorry….. Too Soon Always too soon …. from a very good friend of Bud and Geris’ (Penny Barnes)
I’m so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. Nancy, I’m deeply sorry for your loss. I have so many fond memories of Steve.
Nancy – We are very sorry for your loss.
Steve sure did a lot for Local 1521 – his hard work and commitment represent the important language of our collective agreement to this day. I hope that all of your great memories of Steve bring you comfort now and in future days when you miss him most.
April Dodge and David Knox
Dear Nancy and family,
We were so shocked and saddened to read of Steve’s passing. You both worked so hard to benefit us all. Glad you got some retirement years in together. Our thoughts are with you.
Debbie and Rene Fleury
So sorry to hear of Steve’s death. His interest in the Developmentally Disabled was comforting to us as parents of our son Larry. Enjoyed working with him. Thinking of you Nancy. Take care.
Aw Nancy, I was shocked to hear of Steve’s passing. I will always remember the day when I first volunteered at OCAPDD and he said, “You know you can get paid for this…me being so young and naive…”WHAT???” He helped start my 35 year career and still going! He will be fondly remembered. Condolences to you and your family.
Nancy-So very sorry to hear of Steve’s passing.
Steve spent his life making this world a better place to live and work in and with you by his side great things were accomplished.
We will remember him with gratitude and fond memories.
Wishing you and family peace and comfort.
Jim Rudkoski and Derek Goltz
Nancy, I am very sorry to hear of Steve’s passing.
My thoughts are with you, and my condolences to you and the rest of the family.