Edward “Ted” Warren Sanders passed away peacefully on Monday, February 9, 2026, surrounded by the love and support of his family.
Born on January 14, 1943, Ted was born and raised in Exeter, Ontario. He is the eldest son of seven children born to Edward Warren Sanders Sr. and Marion (Gladman) Sanders.
Ted married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Sharon (Hugill). Together, they recently celebrated 60 years of a marriage built on laughter, deep friendship, and an unbreakable bond. From camping across the vast landscapes of Canada to cruising the Caribbean with their family, Ted and Sharon lived a life full of shared adventure.
After earning his Funeral Director Certificate at Humber College, Ted began his career in Thunder Bay, where he and Sharon built lasting friendships and created cherished memories. A decision to switch careers to Avenor Pulp and Paper gave Ted the opportunity to spend more time with his family and enjoy outdoor pursuits.
In 1999, their journey came full circle when they moved to Grand Bend, returning to the place they had cherished as teenagers to enjoy their retirement years by the sunsets and the beach they loved. Though Ted faced significant health challenges in his later years, his infectious humor and positive spirit never wavered.
He was a devoted father to Scott (Monica) of Calgary and Tina (Brady) of Mildmay, and a proud and loving grandpa to Jacob, Sydney, Ashton, Paige, Peyton, and Jenna, and great-grandpa to Carson. Ted beamed whenever he spoke about his family, never missing an opportunity to show his pride. His kindness, patience, and unconditional love will live on, leaving a lasting impact on their lives.
He is survived by his wife, Sharon, and his siblings Marnie Melanson, Margaret Stafford, Mary Miller (Gary), Robert Sanders (Susan), Elizabeth Baker (Rod), and Jim Sanders (Barb).
Visitation will be held at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 22 Goshen Street South, ZURICH on Friday, February 27th from 11:30 – 12:30, where Ted’s memorial service will be held at 1 PM.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Grand Bend Area Health Services Foundation or St. Peter’s Lutheran Cemetery, Zurich would be appreciated by the family.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Robert Sanders
For some reason, with four sisters and two brothers we often refer to ourselves by number. Ted was number 3, I am number 5 and Jim is number 7. Ted, 8 years older than me and Jim, 8 years younger. Growing up in Exeter the age difference seemed large. For Ted at 17 and myself at 9 it was an easy decision as to what Ted would do on a Friday night. Sharon won out every time. He sure made the right decision ! In my twenties, thirties and beyond we were brothers. Living in Thunder Bay for 14 years I had the honour to watch Scott and Tina grow, as two brothers made lots of memories. Ted’s endless trips he took as a family of four. One hour from home or many days drive to the foothills of the Rockies. Family first !
Tent camping was replaced by a van, later a boat. Retirement brought him back to Southern Ontario where the family trips were boating, with the grandchildren. Many family gatherings in his backyard, Ted at the BBQ. Boating was replaced by a condo and Caribbean cruises. The trips might have started or ended with Ted and Sharon but always included children and grandchildren at the condo to meet before they all took a cruise together.
Jim is on a Caribbean cruise and as Sharon says “ Ted is on the road again” It would not surprise me if they find themselves on the same ship.
Some trails are happy ones,
Others are blue.
It’s the way you ride the trail that counts,
Here’s a happy one for you.
Happy trails to you,
Until we meet again.
Happy trails to you,
Keep smiling until then.
Just sing a song, and bring the sunny weather.
Happy trails to you,
Until we meet again
Bob
Chris (Shaw) Chapple
My deepest sympathies to Sharon and Family. The Shaw family lived next door to the Sanders family for many years when we were all kids. Ted was a lovely young guy, polite and always smiling. I extend my condolences to all his wonderful siblings.
Pauline Miller
To all of Ted’s family.
My sympathy on the passing of Ted.
My thought & prayers are with you at this very sad & most difficult time.
“When someone you love becomes a memory…
That memory becomes a treasure!”
Chuck & Tanya Erb
Sharon & Family
Tanya and I send our sincere condolences to You and your Family. Ted and yourself have been valued customers of mine for many many years. Every time we chatted, Ted was always interested as to what was new in the car business. He was well informed, and always a kind Gentle Man to visit with.
May all your special memories comfort you in the days ahead.
Sending our Love & Prayers
Ross Cordell
Sharon & family.
I always considered Ted as a special, one of a kind, individual. In his quiet, understated way, he always showed an interest in people around him. He was never at a loss for a comment to suit the circumstances. A great sense of humour, coupled with his smile was always noticeable. Wishing you comfort in reflecting on the many special memories that you’ve enjoyed during your life together.
God Bless
Mark Heimrich
Sharon, Scott & Monica, Tina & Brady & families; Sanders & Hugill families;
Our sincere condolences in the loss of Ted. What a super nice guy and true gentleman he was. I always enjoyed my chats with Ted over the years. Many of those at St. Peter’s Lutheran. He will be missed by many indeed. You all remain in our thoughts and prayers at this time. Rest in peace Ted.
Mark & Julie Heimrich, Sarah, Scott & Spencer.
Bob and Martha Heywood
I always enjoyed a chat with Ted. I remember him attending a few auctions and discussing Sanders family genealogy with him. That was such a prominent name in the town’s early years and he seemed interested in local history. I would have enjoyed getting to know him better. My sincere condolences to you Sharon, and to your family.
Bob and Helen Coates
Our condolences to all of Ted’s family including the Sanders and Hugill families. We remember a pleasant, friendly man who certainly loved his family. May lovely memories comfort you.
Shannon
Aunt Sharon, Scott, Tina, and family,
I have so many lovely memories of Uncle Ted from when I was younger and we lived in Thunder Bay, but my favourite memories are from Tina’s wedding. He was so happy that day – I remember him out on the dance floor with the biggest grin on his face..
I will be out of the country the day of the memorial service, but I will be thinking of all of you.
Jo-Ann Thiel Boswell
Deepest sympathy to you and your family. May your memories of Ted’s life well lived and loved keep warm in your heart. May God hold you in his arms at this difficult time. Hugs.
Cindy Fisher Bailey
Jim and all of the Sanders family
I am so very sorry to read of Teds passing. May he Rest In Peace
My condolences to you all
Cindy Fisher (Formerly from Mill st Exeter)
MaryJaneTaylor
Sharon and Families,
My Sincere Sympathy in the passing of your dear Ted….
Such a great treasure of your picture on your 60th it was lovely..
Remembering Ted from high school he never seemed to change.
May all your special memories be a comfort to you all as you journey the time without him..
Remember him with a smile, he is always with you…
Lois Thiel
Sincere sympathy to Sharon and all her family on the loss of a wonderful husband,father and grandfather. May it help to know that others are thinking of you with love and support.
You have him always in your heart and God has him in HIs care.
Sincerely Lois Thiel
Elaine Clarke (Ducharme)
Sharon and Family
I am so sorry to hear of Ted’s passing.
He was truly a very kind gentleman.
Thinking of you and your family at this difficult time
Sending you love, peace and strength.
Hugs
Peter and Sheila Maurer
Dear Sharon and family.
We are so very sorry for the loss of your beloved Ted. Wishing you peace and the comfort of happy memories. Gentle hugs.
Dave Frayne
To Sharon and the Sander’s family
My condolences on Ted’s passing.
Knew the Sander’s when they lived on Waterloo Street in Exeter.
Blue Water Rest Home
Sending condolences on behalf of the Residents, Staff and Board at Blue Water Rest Home. You are in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Barry McKnight
Sharon and family. Both Dean and I are saddened to hear of your loss. You have our sincere condolances. Ted was a great friend to both Dean and I.
Marg Deichert
Sharon & Family, Cathy & Gary and the Hugilil & Sanders families,
Sending hugs on prayers on the loss of your Ted.
Ted always had a smile and greeting no matter how he was doing.
Treasure all your wonderful memories.
Love,
Marg Deichert & family
Wendy PSW BWRH
Sharon and Family, my deepest condolences to you all in the loss of your Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother. Ted was a very special man, and it was evident he had a truly loving and caring Family. Although he was only with us a short time, it was a pleasure to care for Him, always expressing a soft spoken thank you for any care provided to Him.
Bob and Elizabeth Merner
Sharon, Tina, Scott, and family, Sorry to hear of Ted’s passing. He was a great person. He left many great memories for us and his family that will remain in our hearts.
Robert and Alma Westlake
Sharon and family;
Ted was a very special person, a gentleman, husband, father, grandpa and friend. His gentle nod and smile will be missed.
Our sincere sympathy to you and your family.
Henry and Mary lynne Drzewiecki
So sorry to hear about Ted. Thoughts are with you Sharon and your family.
Courtenay Hemphill
May his memory always be a blessing.
Vincent Marson
So sorry for your loss Scott. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family. Truly a great man!!!
Ron & Carol
Sharon I’m so sorry of hearing of Ted’s passing. You & Ted were like family to me. Heartfelt Codolence to you and family. God Bless & Ted rest in peace 🙏
R Keith Lingwall
God’s blessings on you and yours in this time of loss & sorrow. Oh, what MEMORIES we have of our time with you in Thunder Bay!!!!
Doug and Sharon Kyle
Sharon and Family,
We wish to extend our sincere sympathy to you at this difficult time.
Cherish all your wonderful memories.
We will be keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
Janet Marostica
Hi Sharon
So sorry to hear that Ted has passed. I will say a prayer for you and your family.
Sarah A Siegner
Sharon and family, you and Ted were the first people we met when we moved in here. Ted and Dick were like a couple of best friends immediately. I am sure both of them are watching over you right now. Love, to all of your family.
Lori Husiak
My heart is very heavy with the sad news of Ted’s passing. My sincere condolences to Sharon, Scott, Tina and their Families.
Jeanne Waas
Sharon and family. I’m so very sorry for the loss of your husband, father Grandfather and siblings
Although I didn’t know Ted, I knew from his friends how lovely of a man he was. I know one person and a fur friend that will miss him dearly.
May the many memories of what you had together make you smile again.