Obituary-img

Kevin Antony Sanders

December 29, 1956 ~ October 1, 2024

Kevin Antony Sanders, 67, of Gainesville, Florida, passed away on October 1, 2024, after suffering a stroke. Born on December 29, 1956, in Danville, Illinois, Kevin led a rich and fulfilling life, marked by adventure, intellectual curiosity, and love for his family.

Kevin proudly served his country in the United States Army before graduating magna cum laude from Sam Houston State University. His career as an environmental scientist at CH2MHill spanned decades and took him across the globe, from the clean air initiatives of Egypt to projects in Puerto Rico, Canada, and all over the United States.

He is survived by his beloved daughters, Shannon Ensley (Brian) of Montgomery, AL; Heather Khan (Omar) of Gainesville, FL; and Margaret of Tallahassee, FL; grandchildren Kyndal Khan, Ian Ensley, Alexander Ensley, and Skylar Khan; his ex-wife and lifelong friend, Lisa Moore; his bonus mom, Judith Sanders; and his brothers Kerry Sanders, Johnathan Sanders, and Jim LeSaux. Kevin is preceded in death by his son, Joshua, and his parents, John Sanders and Ruth LeSaux.

A man of both intellect and creativity, Kevin’s love for geology began as a boy, collecting fossils and arrowheads—a passion that followed him throughout his life. He was also a talented spades player, a lover of good music, a fisherman, and an amazing cook—his breakfast burritos were legendary among family and friends. His talents knew no bounds; he could solve complex math problems, whip up a delicious meal, or create intricate macrame designs with ease.

Kevin's love for his family ran deep, and he shared his passions for history, football, and good movies with those closest to him. A devoted fan of both the Chicago Bears and the Florida Gators, Kevin’s voice could often be heard cheering them on. His laugh was full of life, infectious and joyous, filling any room he entered with warmth.

Kevin leaves behind a legacy of love, adventure, and intellectual curiosity that will continue to inspire all who knew him. His family and friends will forever treasure his memory and the laughter and wisdom he brought into their lives.

Kevin’s ashes will be scattered by his family. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the National Park Foundation.

View current weather.

Guestbook

  1. I love you dad. You are incredibly special to me and I will continue to cherish our memories forever; taking me with you everywhere you went, letting me sit on your lap and "drive" down dirt roads, teaching me how to fish, waking me up with music each morning, always making the most amazing weekend breakfasts, bringing me a bag of M&Ms every time you went to the store, bringing us home keepsakes from all of your many travels, teaching me how to play spades, sharing your love of music and quizzing me on all your 60's and 70's tunes, traveling in the car with me during our many long road trips and volleyball games, teaching me how to drive a stick, watching "flicks" together, letting me paint your face, doing an amazing watermelon into the pool, holding my hand through anything and everything, and showing me what it means to be a "Sanders".

    You gave me such a wonderful and beautiful life. You never judged me. You let me be who I am, trusted my heart, and knew I would always make you proud. Your unconditional love and support helped to make me the mother and wife I am today. You will always be with me. I love you more than words.

  2. Alway special, the oldest son of our dear Uncle John, my Mother’s brother. 
    I wish we could have spent more time together. So glad you and Maggie made the trip to Siesta Key the last time we were there with Mother, your Aunt Margaret. 
    Love to all,   Diane Jones 

  3. I extend my sincere condolences to you and your family. May God comfort and strengthen y'all during this difficult time. May the memories you have keep a smile on your face.

    Your Legacy Class XLI Family!


Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle