Robert Sanderson, 95 of Portage, formerly of Pardeeville, passed away peacefully Monday, June 29, 2026 at the Hamilton House. A man who loved God and his family. Bob was born May 19, 1931  in Milwaukee, WI, the middle child of Curtis “Curt” and Margaret “Megs” Sanderson. Bob was raised in Cambria, WI and graduated from Cambria High School in 1950. 

Bob met the love of his life, Margaret Ruth Larsen, at a multi-church choir event. They were married on July 30, 1966 and settled in Pardeeville. They were known to friends and family as “Toot and Bob” and were married 56 years. They had two children, Kurt Andrew Sanderson and Chad Robert Sanderson.

Together with his father and brother Jim, they established Sanderson Prairie Farms – a family operation that evolved over the decades from beef to hog production and ultimately to corn and soybean farming. Bob brought the same energy to other ventures. He partnered with family to build-out several Kelly’s Hamburger restaurants in the Madison area, as an outlet for the beef they raised in Cambria. Bob and his brother Jim were also dealers of the Buffalo and Hiniker no-till implements. He also served on the board of directors of People’s Telephone Company of Randolph – and was not uncommonly found conducting board business by phone while operating a combine in the field. Bob worked with his brother Jim until he was nearly 88 years old. 

At age 66, Bob earned his pilot’s license. He loved to fly. It was a passion that he shared with many friends, family, and neighboring farmers. He loved cards, cherished his time with family and friends.

Bob’s faith in Christ was foundational to his life. He was a member of North Scott Baptist Church in Pardeeville, where he served in a number of capacities and sang in the choir for many years. In his final years, as memory faded, he could still recite the 23rd Psalm and was often heard singing the hymns he had loved for a lifetime – a testament to how deeply his faith had taken root.

Bob is survived by his sons, Chad Robert Sanderson (Krysten) of California and Kurt Andrew Sanderson (Kristi) of Minnesota; grandchildren Madison, Andrew and Alyssa Sanderson; his brother James Sanderson (Joanne); as well as nieces, nephews, cousins, and many dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Margaret (Megs) Sanderson; his beloved wife, Margaret Ruth (Larsen) Sanderson; and his sister, Lois Berger (Ralph).

A Funeral Service will be held Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 12:00 P.M. at Grasse Funeral Home in Pardeeville with Rev. Matthew Brandt officiating. Visitation will be held from 10:00 A.M. until the time of service on Saturday. Internment will be held at Pardeeville Cemetery. Luncheon to follow.