Richard Sanderson, 81, passed away March 27 at Syracuse Home after a long illness. He was born September 15, 1935, the son of Mary Candice Isham and Harold "Shorty" Sanderson. He lived in Baldwinsville most of his life, attending Baldwinsville schools. He graduated from Baldwinsville High School in 1991 under the NYS External Degree Program, one of the highlights of his life. He was a member of the Canton Woods Senior Center where he enjoyed playing cards. He also volunteered his time at the Senior Express, Fire Department, and Sheriff's Office monitoring handicapped parking spaces.

His working life consisted primarily of truck driving where he worked for Allied Van Lines, R.E. Dietz Co., and Case Supply. His happiest times were spent behind the wheel whether on the job, traveling, or driving friends to football games. He and his wife traveled the US in their RV, also spending winters in Zephyrhills, FL.

He will be remembered for his long distance driving capabilities, as a member of the pit crew of Car 40 which raced at Oswego Speedway in the '60s and '70s. He will also be remembered by many of giving a helping hand when needed, especially driving people south or moving them, mostly locally, but sometimes as far as Michigan. He was always there when needed. His love for the Baldwinsville area is symbolized by his donation of a huge tree for the town's Christmas display.

Richard was predeceased by two sisters, Eunice Lee and Pearl Weber, three brothers, Roy, Robert, and Leo Sanderson. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Georgia Sciacca Sanderson; brothers, Burdette, Thomas, and Howard Sanderson; many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, April 22 at 9:30 am in St. Mary's Church, 47 Syracuse St, Baldwinsville, NY. Calling hours are Thursday, April 20th from 4-6 pm at Falardeau Funeral Home, 93 Downer St, Baldwinsville.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the McHarrie Life Foundation, 7740 Meigs Rd, Baldwinsville, NY 13027.