Douglas Ray Sanderson

Douglas Ray Sanderson, age 67, of Swanton, Ohio, a man who had a lifelong passion to work with his hands, passed away Monday morning, March 16, 2026, after a courageous battle with cancer. Doug was born on January 5, 1959, in Toledo, Ohio to James and Sandra (Johnson) Sanderson. Doug lived a life devoted to his craft and to the family he cherished above all else.

A 1978 graduate of Start High School, Doug's passion for anything mechanical became the cornerstone of his life’s work. He spent decades working on cars, motorcycles and machinery, ultimately retiring in 2021 from the University of Toledo’s maintenance and repair department, where his expertise and dedication were irreplaceable, as evident when the University kept calling him out of retirement to work. To know Doug was to know a man who was a jack of all trades and who could fix anything. Also well known for his quick wit and sarcasm. His spirit found freedom on the open road riding his Harley’s—symbols of independence and a soul untamed.

Yet beyond the mechanical world, Doug was a fiercely devoted family man, who enjoyed traveling and working in his shop. He treasured time spent with his loving wife Kristene Ragan, who he was with for 41 amazing years. He was blessed with his daughter, Angela (Brian) Sanderson-Haupt, and sons Jeremy (Victoria) Sanderson, James (Brooke) Sanderson, and Dylan Sanderson. His legacy flourishes in the laughter and love of his six grandchildren—Nikki, Wyatt, Cooper, Blake, Jayden, and Taytum.

Doug's circle of love extended through his siblings Michael (Rita) Sanderson, Wanda (Larry) Tibai, Daniel (Michele) Sanderson, and Beth (Alfred) Lee, who, along with many nieces and nephews, carry forward his memory. Doug was preceded in death by his parents, James and Sandra Sanderson.

Visitation will be held Monday, March 30th from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Tuesday, March 31st from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the Weigel Funeral Home in Swanton. A memorial service honoring Doug's life will be held Tuesday, March 31st at 11:00 am in the funeral home, with visitation one hour prior. Pastor Maryann Reimund will officiate.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society.