Waneta Jane Sanderson of Saginaw, Michigan

Beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Monday, February 2, 2026. She was 74 years old. Waneta Jane Ward was born on July 9, 1951, in Marlette, Michigan to the late Earl and Verl (Streeter) Ward. While working in hospitality, she met the love of her life, Gary Wayne Sanderson. They began dating, fell in love, and were married on March 26, 1983; he preceded her in death on June 28, 2009. Waneta worked various customer service positions within hospitality and retail in Saginaw. The role she cherished the most was being a loving and devoted wife and mother, but truly treasured being a grandmother. Waneta was a long-time member of the Eagles Club in Carrollton. Throughout her membership, she selflessly donated her time to organize and host countless Bingo charities to benefit the Saginaw community. She also enjoyed spending time thrift shopping as well as going to the casino with all of her casino friends. She will forever be remembered for being funny, outgoing, straight forward, honest, but most importantly for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful memories and stories. Above all, Waneta was a bright light and kind spirit who loved her family, especially her grandchildren and beloved cat, Mia. They truly made her heart feel full and complete.

Surviving are two daughters: Teresa (Tim Schlak) Ward of Carrollton; Cassie Sanderson of Saginaw; three step children: Gary Sanderson of Saginaw; Cheri Rossiter of Saginaw; John McDonald of Alpena; eight grandchildren: Dan (Andrea) Ward, Ryan Sanderson, Jacob Rossiter, Zack Rossiter, Josh Rossiter, Ruben Maldonado, Cheyanne McDonald, and Shane McDonald; numerous great-grandchildren, two she held a special bond with Alyvia “her girl” and Daniel Ward; sister, Patricia (Fran) Clark, Fred (Janet) Ward, Richard Ward. Also surviving are countless nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends too numerous to mention but held closely to her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Verl Ward; step grandson, Jonathan McDonald; three brothers and one sister: Doug, Joe, Dorothy, and Cecil; three sisters-in-law, Peggy Ward, Pat Sanderson, and Rhonda Ward.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff of Covenant at home hospice, the staff at Covenant Hospital, the Bedford family, Dana, Jen, and Pam for all the love and care they provided to Waneta and the family.

A funeral service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Road, Saginaw, Michigan, 48603. Pastor Dell Bedford will officiate. Honoring Waneta’s wishes, cremation will follow the service. Family and friends are welcome to visit with the family at the funeral home on Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to Under Cover Angels. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.casefuneralhome.com.