Milton Richard Sanders

Milton Richard Sanders, age 80, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 26, 2024. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, Milt’s life was marked by dedication, service, and a deep love for his family, faith, and country.

Milt was born on December 15, 1943, in Tallahassee, Florida, to Milton Wesley Sanders and Virginia Ida Hepler Sanders. After his birth, the family moved frequently as his father continued his military service. Despite the moves, Milt’s love for learning and resilience shone through. He completed his high school years in Alexandria, Virginia, before receiving a nomination to the U.S. Air Force Academy, where he graduated in 1966 with a degree in aeronautical engineering and later earned a masters in the same field.

Milt went on to serve with honor in the United States Air Force, completing over 250 combat missions as an F-100 pilot with the 615th Tactical Fighter Squadron in Vietnam. Among his many awards, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery and skill in combat. His courage, dedication, and skill left a lasting impression on those who served with him and those who knew him. After his deployment, he became a T-38 instructor at Vance Air Force Base in Oklahoma, sharing his expertise and mentoring the next generation of pilots.

In 1969, Milt married his first love, Kay Johnson Gerber, in the Salt Lake City Temple. Together, they built a loving home for their five children, instilling in them values of integrity, faith, and kindness. Milt’s military service continued in various roles, including assignments in Louisiana and Korea, where he flew the A-7 Corsair II and served as a Division Air Liaison Officer. He completed his distinguished military career in 1986, retiring as a Major after 20 years of service.

Following his military career, Milt transitioned to civilian work as a systems and network engineer. After nearly 40 years of marriage, Kay passed away in 2008, leaving a profound impact on his life. Later that year, Milt found another wonderful companion in Kathleen Jennings, whom he married and was sealed to in the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. Together, they built a life of service and joy, creating cherished memories with their children, grandchildren, and friends.

A devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Milt served in many capacities. His faith was a guiding force, and he embodied Christlike love, kindness, and service to all. He was always willing to lend a helping hand or offer words of wisdom, and his presence brought comfort and encouragement to those around him.

Milt lived life with enthusiasm, gratitude, and a generous spirit. He was deeply devoted to his family and cherished the moments spent sharing stories, wisdom, and laughter with his children and grandchildren. His legacy of service, humor, and strength will live on in his family, who will carry forward his values and honor his memory.

Milt is survived by his wife, Kathleen; his children, Michael (Juliet), Jeremy (Layna), Amy (John), Chad (Hillary), and Ryan (Jessie); his 22 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren; and his many friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Kay, and his parents, Milton Wesley and Virginia Ida Sanders.

Services and Viewings:

An evening viewing for family and friends will be held on: Friday, November 1, 2024, 6:30 to 8:00 pm LDS Chapel, 1800 South 400 West, Orem, Utah

A daytime viewing will be held prior to the funeral services on: Saturday, November 2, 2024, 8:30 to 9:30 am LDS Chapel, 1800 South 400 West, Orem, Utah

Funeral services will take place on: Saturday, November 2, 2024, 10:00 am LDS Chapel, 1800 South 400 West, Orem, Utah

Interment will follow with Military Rites at:  Mt. View Memorial Estates Cemetery 3115 Bengal Boulevard, Cottonwood Heights, Utah

For those unable to attend the Interment with military rites in person you may view it at the following link: HERE

Condolences for the family may be expressed on this page.