Gordon R. (Gordy) Sanderson (Obituary)
07/12/1950 – 07/22/2026
Gordy was born to Junior Gordon (Sandy) and Caroline (Forde) Sanderson on July 12, 1950. He was an only child for 9 years creating his own entertainment. He played baseball, was part of the St. Louis Park High School Gymnastics Team and Marching Band, playing the Trombone.
Gordy’s draft number was 13 so he enlisted. He was trained as a turbine engine mechanic before being sent to Vietnam. He ultimately was part of a small Army experimental ACV unit of 3 crafts based in the delta. These large air cushioned vehicles allowed travel off and on land providing reconnaissance and troop insertion. These crafts always traveled in pairs. The first of 3 had been “lost” prior to Gordy’s arrival. The remaining 2 were always together. However, it wasn’t too long before the craft Gordy was on hit a landmine while “jumping” the bank with a full crew as well as troops to insert. The destruction of that craft killed several and injured many. Gordy had significant injuries but his actions that day saved lives. His injuries from that day, including a severely broken back, plagued him the rest of his life.
Gordon R. Sanderson received the Vietnam Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, the National Defense Medal, The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Sharpshooter (Rifle).
Upon returning to the United States and his parents’ home in St. Louis Park, Sandy suggested that Gordy go back to Hopkins Dodge long enough to earn his vacation. Gordy retired with 30 years in the union as a heavy line mechanic in spite of his considerable back issues.
Gordy met and married Jan (Modine) Sanderson and had 2 children, Shannon (Brandon) Schauer and Jason (Lisa) Sanderson. Shannon and Jason were his world.
Gordy met and married the love of his life, Cheryll (Veaderko) Sanderson and celebrated their 37th wedding anniversary in May.
Gordy rejoiced when his grandchildren were born. Insisting that we stop to buy Bryan a football on the way to the hospital! Blessed again with Brady and then with our lovely Sammy (Samantha), he adored his grandchildren.
Gordy was a member of the VFW, American Legion and a long-time Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 8, in Hopkins, MN. Gordy always took pride in his yard and home and enjoyed working in it as long as he was able.
Gordy is survived by his wife Cheryll, his daughter Shannon (Brandon) Schauer, son Jason (Lisa) Sanderson, grandchildren Bryan (fiancé Paige), Brady and Samantha Schauer, his brother Daniel (Lynn) Sanderson, many nieces, nephews and cousins. Predeceased by his parents, Sandy and Caroline, and brother Rick.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 13th, from 1:00 to 4:00 pm at the Hopkins VFW.
Interment will be at Fort Snelling in September.
