Charles “Freeman” Sander passed away on Sunday, December 26, 2021 at the
Hays Medical Center at the age of 83. He was born to Charles William
and Grace (Slightam) Sander on June 20, 1938 in Stockton, Kansas.
Freeman was a lifelong resident of Rooks County. He was not only a
generational “Charles” but a generational farmer. He spent his life
doing what he loved most, farming with his dad, his brothers and his
son. Freeman graduated from Stockton High School in 1956. While in high
school, Freeman was awarded the Degree of American Farmer at the
National FFA Convention. During his lifetime, Freeman was a proud
member and supporter of several agricultural associations including FFA,
4-H, and the Rooks County Free Fair. While serving as President of
the fair board, Freeman was able to make the local fair one of the most
recognized in the state. His dedicated service was recognized in 2014
when Freeman was inducted into the Kansas Fairs and Festivals Hall of
Fame. Another of Freeman’s most prized recognitions was winning the
Ellis Steer Futurity Top Rate of Gain against the unbeatable Fort Hays
State show herd.
As a steward of the land and livestock, Freeman took seriously the
charge of God, to take care of the earth and all that is in it. With
strong faith and abiding hope, he worked hard, loved greatly, and now
rests from his labors. The legacy of his love, laughter, and joy will
live in our hearts and memories forever.
He is survived by his wife, Twila Sander of the home in Stockton,
KS; children, Charles F. (Marsha) Sander of Stockton, KS, and Brian
(Trish) Sander of Plainville, KS; step-children, Aronda Strutt of
Stockton, KS, Kris Strutt of Wichita, KS, and Clint (Angela) Strutt of
Mons, Belgium; and nine grandchildren; and his brother Delbert (Rita)
Sander of Stockton, Kansas.
Freeman is preceded in death by his parents, William and Grace
Sander; children, Kimberly Kay Sander and William James Sander; brother,
George Sander; and granddaughter, Eden Strutt.
The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, December 30, 2021 at
10 AM at the Funeral Home in Stockton. Visitation will be on Wednesday,
December 29, 2021 from 2 PM until 8 PM at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to the Stockton FFA or St. Jude’s Children
Hospital and may be sent in care of Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home, 723
North First, Stockton, KS 67669. Online condolences can be left for the
family at www.plumeroverlease.com.