Obituary of Rodell D. Sanford

Rodell "Butch" D. Sanford Sr., 78, went to meet his Lord, Jesus on September 25, 2017. Having battled cancer for 2 ½ years, he passed away peacefully while under Hospice care. Butch, a lifelong Lockport resident, was born June 13, 1939 to Charles and Mable (Robinson) Sanford. He was the sixth of eight children. Charles, Rodney, Ronald, Sylvia (Sapp), Richard and Fred predeceased him. His eldest sister, Shirley Ruof, is 92. He grew up in "Lowertown" Lockport and graduated from Lockport Senior High School in 1957. As a youth, Rodell enjoyed singing and art. He married Barbara (LaFleur) in 1964. Together they frequently traveled to visit family in many states. He had an active lifestyle for many decades. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and truly loved nature and birdwatching. An avid golfer, he once shot a hole-in-one at the Niagara County Golf Course. He was an owner and trainer of harness horses for over a decade. He had a soft spot for all animals, taking in dogs and cats from his early years onward. He worked hard to support his family. As a young man, he served in the NY National Guard for 6 years. He spent his career at Harrison Radiator for 33 years. He completed a great deal of college coursework for his job as a journeyman there, from which he retired in 1996. After that, he discovered an interest in antiques, which he and his wife sold at shows and in co-ops for many years. Butch was a kind-hearted and generous man who often donated to charities, as he was raised to always lend a hand to others in need. He was a steadfast patriot all his life. He had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh and tell stories. He would do anything for family and friends and loved them intensely. He is survived by his wife Barbara, son Rodell Jr, daughter Susan (William) Watson, and his adored granddaughter, Isabella. He is also survived by his dear sister Shirley, and by many nieces, nephews, and cousins spread all over the country. Prudden & Kandt will host calling hours from 5 to 7 on Thursday, September 28th. A private burial will take place the next day at Cold Springs Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Rodell's memory may be made to Sister Mary Loretto Memorial Soup Kitchen or a charity of your own choice.