Kathryn Arlene (Sanvik) Sanders was born June 16, 1939 to Margaret and Norman Sanvik in Albert Lea, Minn. Her family was descended from among the earliest of Norwegian settlers in the area. Kathy grew up in Albert Lea, graduating from high school in 1957.
Kathy moved to Indiana ,where she devoted herself to growing her family while advancing her career in education. Kathy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Indiana University in 1975 followed by a Master of Arts degree in teaching from DePauw University in 1978.
Kathy joined the Greencastle Community School Corporation, teaching at Miller and Ridpath elementary schools until her retirement. She was an active volunteer in local organizations, clubs and her church. Kathy was an advocate of educational development and autism policy awareness. Over the course of her life in Greencastle, Kathy nurtured many deep and long-lasting friendships she greatly valued until her passing on Oct. 12, 2023 at age 84.
Kathy is survived by her sons, Christopher of Greencastle and James Patrick (Sarah) of Lexington, Ky.; brother Ronald (Donna) Sanvik of Eagan, Minn.; her grandchildren, Jacob (Jennifer) Livingston, Jennifer (Blake) Dunn and Martha “Katie” (Matt) Lucas; great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Kathy was preceded in death by her daughter, Clarinda Kersey, her bother, James “Jim” Sanvik, parents and nephew David Sanvik.
A memorial service will be held at Gobin Memorial United Methodist Church in Greencastle at a date to be announced. If desired, donations may be made to Putnam County Comprehensive Services (pccsinc.org).
