Obituary of Duane H. Sanford

Duane H. Sanford, 76, passed away unexpectedly on August 12, 2023, at his home in Rochester, Washington. He was the husband of Tracy L. Sanford. They shared 24 years of marriage together.

Born the second of five children in Princeton, Minnesota, in 1947, he was the son of Robert “Red” and Laverne Sanford. Duane graduated from Princeton High School in 1965 and then worked as a brick hod carrier and built silos. Shortly after graduating, he moved to Los Angeles and worked as a typesetter for a major news outlet. He also managed an apartment complex and enjoyed helping to maintain his father-in-law’s avocado groves. From there, he transitioned into what would become his business--Sanford Trucking, where he was an owner/operator. In his 30+ years on the road, he drove over three million miles, hauling produce and fresh seafood.

Duane enjoyed traveling, camping, spending time at home tending to his garden, and being with family and friends. He is known for his compassion, patience, and kindness. He was a loving grandfather, father, husband, and friend. He will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his second wife, Tracy Sanford; daughters, Rachael Sanford (Shane), Rachel Adams (Greg), and Rebecca Cole (Scott); grandchildren, Alessandra, Spencer, Coraline, and Lucy; siblings, Robert Sanford (Helen), Ruth Helmin (Dave), and Russell Sanford (Patricia); and first wife, Ruth A. Schutter.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Mark; and sadly, by his daughter, Regina, in 2022; nephew, Russell “Bubba” Sanford, Jr., and niece, Gena Sanford, both earlier this year.

The memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 16, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. at South Sound Manor, Tumwater, WA 98501.

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