Robert R. Sanders, 59, of Lynn Twp., Lehigh Co., died Thursday, February 2, 2012 in Schuylkill Medical Center East, Pottsville. He was taken there from Orwigsburg Center.

Born in West Reading, he was the son of Elizabeth R. (Miller) Sanders, Albany Twp., and the late Ray F. Sanders. He was a U.S. Navy veteran of the Vietnam War. Robert worked for 37 years as a heavy equipment operator for W.E. Yoder, Kutztown. He was a 20-year member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local #542. Robert was an avid hunter.

Surviving in addition to his mother is one daughter: Janine K. Cunningham, Kutztown; three sisters: Joanne E. (Sanders), wife of Dennis Houptley, Kutztown; Diane L. (Sanders), wife of Fred Fella, Richmond Twp.; and Judith A. Sanders, companion of Ray Geist, Tioga Co.; and one granddaughter. Robert is also survived by his precious dog Brandy.

A viewing will be held at Leibensperger Funeral Homes, Inc., 65 S. 4th Street, Hamburg (off street parking in rear) on Tuesday from 6:30 to 8:00 pm followed by a time for relatives and friends to share memories of Robert at 8:00 pm. Burial will be private in Hope Cemetery of Dryville. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Pennsylvania Game Commission, 2001 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797, to benefit Pennsylvania's wildlife. For online condolences, please visit, www.leibenspergerfuneralhomes.com.