Donald L. Sander, age 77, passed away at 1:20 a.m. on February 4, 2026, at Serenity Springs Senior Living at Northwood in Jasper.
He was born on January 31, 1949, to Victor and Viola (Vogler) Sander.
On May 6, 1972, Donnie married the love of his life, Linda Bickwermert, beginning a devoted partnership that spanned more than five decades. He was a proud graduate of Dubois High School, Class of 1967. Following high school, Donnie joined the U.S. Army Reserve, where he formed lifelong friendships and continued his commitment to service.
Throughout his working life, Donnie was employed by several local companies, but nothing brought him greater pride than founding Sander Catering, a business that reflected his strong work ethic and love for bringing people together.
Donnie was a lifelong member of St Isidore Parish- St. Celestine Catholic Church and deeply involved in his community. He served as a member of the Celestine Volunteer Fire Department, the Celestine Community Club, Knights of Columbus, Celestine Park, and was President of the Celestine Sesquicentennial. He was also a member of the American Legion Post #147, Dubois County Builder’s Association, and the Jasper Chamber of Commerce.
Generosity defined Donnie’s life. He freely donated his time and talents to countless community events and organizations, including Lenten Fish Fries, Strassenfest booths, Celestine Streetfest, Celestine Park Holiday BBQs, Celestine Community Club Shooting Matches, and the Dubois Ruritan Septemberfest, just to name a few. He was especially known for never turning down an opportunity to help a local family in need through fundraising efforts. His time and talents were recognized by receiving the Celestine Distinguished Service Award and becoming Grand Marshal with his siblings for the Celestine 175th celebration.
Donnie is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Linda Sander; his daughter, Jenna (Damian) Mehne; and his four cherished granddaughters, Ava, Kilyn, Brynlee, and Freya Mehne. He is also survived by his sisters, Darlene Phillips, Martha Goepfrich, and Cindy (Tony) Vernon; his brothers, Jim (Margaret) Sander and Ronnie (Mary) Sander; his godfather and uncle, Charlie Vogler; and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his son, Ryan Sander, his parents, Victor and Viola Sander, two brothers-in-law, Steve Goepfrich and Mark Phillips and one niece, Emily Phillips.
Donald will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his family, church, and community, his generous spirit, and his willingness to help anyone in need. His legacy of service and kindness will live on in the many lives he touched.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Donald L. Sander will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at St. Celestine Catholic Church in Celestine, Indiana. A burial will follow in the church cemetery. The American Legion Post #147 will conduct military graveside rites.
A visitation will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, at the Becher Kluesner North Chapel in Jasper. A second visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the 11:00 a.m. Mass time at St. Celestine Catholic Church on Tuesday, February 10th.
Memorial contributions may be made to St Isidore Parish or a favorite charity.
Online condolences can be made at www.becherkluesner.com.
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