Jean Sander

Jean Kathryn Sander, 92, of Cape Girardeau passed away Wednesday, April 15, 2020, at Chateau Girardeau.

She was born Feb. 6, 1928, in Cape Girardeau to the late Otto Henry and Dora Marie Bingenheimer Nothdurft. Jean and Vernon Henry Sander were married Aug. 22, 1948, at Grace Methodist Church in Cape Girardeau. He preceded her in death.

Jean was a lifetime resident of Cape Girardeau, graduating from Southeast Missouri State University in 1948 with a degree in education, leading to a decade as a physical education teacher in the Cape Girardeau School District. She then became a mother and devoted her remaining years to her family and home, while also continuing to be an active member of her church, Grace United Methodist, where she was involved in United Methodist Women, along with serving as an organist and choir member for over 40 years.

Jean enjoyed many hobbies and activities, including sewing, crafts, furniture refinishing, bridge club and travel. She was also a sports fan and enjoyed being active with bowling and golf for many years. She achieved a golf highlight in 1996 at age 68 with a hole-in-one on No. 18 at Kimbeland Country Club in Jackson.

Never afraid to laugh or to solicit a laugh, she entertained her many friends and family with her sharp wit and dry sense of humor.

Loving survivors include her children, Cindy (Steve) Lashley of Saint Charles, Missouri, Tim (Erika) Sander of Fairview Heights, Illinois, and Lisa Ruch of Millersville; granddaughter, Megan Ruch; and nieces, nephews and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Vernon Sander; and brothers, Ivan and Clifton Nothdurft.

A private graveside service will be Saturday at Cape County Memorial Park Cemetery, with the Rev. Eric Schmidt officiating.

The family will have a public memorial service later this summer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Grace United Methodist Church, Aging Matters or Southeast Hospice.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Online condolences may be shared at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.