Max Leon Sanders, 77, left this world peacefully, Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009, surrounded by family. He had been in declining health for the past four years. He was born at home in Zanoni, Mo., August 22, 1931, the youngest child of Fred and Nora Sanders. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers and five sisters. Max is survived by wife, Ardelle Steinman Sanders of the home; three daughters, Kathyrn West and husband, Wayne of Little Rock, Ark; Carolyn Bussard and husband, Randy of Willard, Mo.; Marcia Sanders and special friend Greg Cherry, of Springfield, Mo.; two sons, Jeffery Sanders and wife, Theresa of St. Peters, Mo.; Gregory Sanders and wife, Lana of Springfield, Mo.; fifteen grandchildren, five great-grandchildren; one sister, Delore Thornton of Dora, Mo.; and a host of other family and friends. He served four years in the US Navy. He retired as Office Manager from Springfield-Lincoln Mercury in 1991. Max enjoyed fishing, gardening, woodworking, ballgames and playing with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His family was all important to him and he will be greatly missed. Visitation will be Wednesday, April 15, 2009, from 6 to 8 p.m. in Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel. Funeral services will be held Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 11 a.m. in Smith Chapel, Brixey, Mo. under the care of the funeral home with the Reverend Mitchell Wright officiating. Burial will follow in Smith Chapel Cemetery.