Franklin Millard Sanders, age 95 of Canton, passed away May 23, 2025. He was born on August 8, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan to Franklin Harvey and Jessie Fern Sanders.

Upon his graduation from Fordson High School, Frank entered the service proudly joining the United States Navy where he served as a radio technician on aircraft carriers. After his honorable discharge, he continued his humble dedication serving in the Navy Reserve for over 30 years as a Seabee, reaching the final rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4. Frank went on to study at Wayne State University, Lawrence Technological University, as well as Central Michigan University. With his focus on engineering, he started his career as a draftsman at the Rouge Plant and continued his career with Ford Automotive as an engineer. He remained with the company for over 40 years before his retirement.

Discipline was always in Frank’s nature, as he preferred to do things the right way from the very start. He never missed a day of work, even being recognized by Ford upon his retirement. Keeping active was important to Frank and at 55 years old, he added the accomplishment of running in the Detroit Free Press Marathon. He continued his daily exercise well into his later years and was an avid golfer, achieving two hole in ones, and bowler.

A devoted husband and father, Frank’s thoughtfulness and generosity didn’t go unnoticed. He was a strong supporter of The Arbor Day Foundation, The National Parks and St. Jude’s. Frank was a wonderful man with a genuine kindness that he shared throughout his life. His authenticity was appreciated by all, as well as his dry wit that was hard to match. Certainly a life well lived, Frank will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing him.  

Frank was the beloved husband of the late Ethelmae for 59 years. Loving father of Scott (Karin), Leslie (Kevin) Belcher, Lori (Dennis) Brand, Steven (Jamie), and the late baby Jeffrey (passed in 1956). Proud grandfather of Jeffrey, April, Jennifer, Justin, Chelsea, Robert, Jakob, Jessi and Brooks. Great-grandfather of Charlotte, Madeline, Daphne, Evie, Vivienne, Erickson, Colt, Carson and Kaiden. Dear brother of the late William Kenneth Sanders.

Visitation for Frank will be held on Wednesday, June 4th, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his Funeral Service at 11:00 a.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 851 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton. Following the service, Military Honors will be rendered as Frank is laid to rest in Glen Eden Memorial Park, Livonia.

Memorial donations in Frank’s name are appreciated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.