Leroy James Sanderson

Leroy Passed away on May 9, 2025. He was born April 11, 1938, In Almira, Wash., to James and Zella (Alling) Sanderson in the Alling Family home. He was the first Grandchild of Ben and Edna Alling. He was a loving Husband, Father, Grandfather, and Great-Grandfather {Great-Grandson born on May 9, 2025) and Friend.

Leroy attended all 12 years of school in Grand Coulee and graduated with the class of 1957 participating in football and basketball. He then enrolled In Wenatchee Valley College graduating in 1959 with an AA degree.

Upon graduation from Wenatchee Valley College, he enlisted In the United States Army serving three years. At which time, he was on active duty during the Berlin Crisis. He was honorably discharged in 1963.

After his discharge he moved to Seattle, Washington and while there he met his future wife, Bette. Leroy and Bette were married June 5, 1965 in Bette's hometown Anaconda, Montana. Shortly thereafter, they returned to the Grand Coulee Area to start their life together In the farming community raising cattle and growing wheat on the family ranch.

In September, 1966 a son was born, and two years later a daughter completed their family. He taught them many valuable life skills including a strong work ethic, discipline, and the value of a dollar.

He raised wheat on the family farm. But his real love was raising cattle and was well respected in the area as a cattleman. He and Bette had 44 years of successful farming and ranching being named Douglas County Landowners of the year in 2012 by the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. He was a Lifetime Member of the Washington State Grange, a member of Douglas County Fire District #3 for over 40 years and served as a Douglas County Fire Commissioner for 16 years.

He was a hard worker but always made time for his family. He and Bette enjoyed many trips in their Fifth Wheel travel trailer. Whether it was camping in the mountains or traveling to visit family-that was his way of vacationing! He enjoyed his large family and many friends. Fond memories were made on the Ranch from opening weekend deer hunting to working cows/calves in the Spring and Fall.

In his later years, after retiring he moved to Electric City. He still maintained the ranch and spent many days driving out there to check his pasture. He loved spending time visiting with his children and grandchildren and they visited frequently. He was an active listener always interested in their lives and offering advice. They all loved Dad and Grandpa Leroy!!!

Leroy was preceded in death by his parents, James and Zelia Sanderson.

He is survived by wife, Bette, at home; son Shannon (Amy} of Cheney, Wash., daughter Jennifer (Mark) Payne of Electric City, Wash.; Grandson, Cody Payne (Lily) of Omak, Wash.; granddaughter, Cassandra Payne, Electric City; Great-Grandson, Jethrow Payne, Omak, WA; Sister Joan Olson of Oceanside, CA, Brothers-in-law, Jim Tucker, Jim (Cindy) Rivers, Leo Rivers, Tim (Mary) Rivers all of Montana. Sisters-in-Law Pat Boggess and Bobbie Daily of Montana and Rose (Bill) Everingham of Colorado. Numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

The Family would like to thank Vistas Manor and Assured Hospice for the care and compassion they showed Leroy in his final Days.

Family and Friends are Invited to attend a Memorial Mass at St. Henry's Catholic Church in Grand Coulee on Friday, May 16, 2025 at 11:00 AM with a luncheon immediately following. Strate Funeral Home in Grand Coulee is caring for the family.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation In Leroy's honor to Douglas County Fire District #3, 1333 SR 174, Grand Coulee, WA 99133; or the GCHS Alumni Association, PO Box 222, Grand Coulee, WA 99133.