William “Bill” W. Sanford, 84, of Rockford, passed away in his home on December 25, 2023, surrounded by his family. He was born on August 10, 1939, in Rockford; the son of Judson and Lottie (Zanerowski) Sanford. Bill graduated from East High School in 1957 and went on to serve in the US Marines Reserves. He married Sandra L. Sanford on February 14, 1959, at Tabor Lutheran Church. Bill worked as a machinist for Rockford Products and retired after working for 40 years. Bill and Sandi attended Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church. Bill loved to sit in his chair and watch the Cubs and the Bears. He also enjoyed watching the Weather Channel and kept up on the weather around the world. He enjoyed traveling with Sandi, taking trips to both Arizona and Hawaii. Bill was a family man and homebody at heart and really enjoyed spending time with his “children”.
Bill is survived by his loving wife Sandi; numerous nieces and nephews that were more like their own children; godparents to 5; and sister Fran Samuelson.
He is predeceased by his parents and brother Richard Sanford.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:30 am on Saturday, January 6, 2024, at the Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church, 2715 S. Mulford Rd., Rockford, IL 61109. There will be a memorial visitation from 10:00 am until the time of service. Stateline Cremations is assisting the family, 6204 Forest Hills Rd., Loves Park, IL. www.statelinecremations.com