Keith Sanders, age 85, of Hayward, WI, passed away on Monday, September 22, 2025 at Hayward Health Services.

Keith was born on May 8, 1940 to Malcolm and Martha (Beckett) Sanders in Ladysmith, WI. Keith served in the United States National Guard for 6 years where he reached the rank of Sgt. E5 and qualified as a Sharpshooter. In the early 1960’s, Keith established and operated his own business, Sanders Arabians and Training Stables in the Holy Hill area of Hartford, WI. For the next 40 years, he bred, raised and trained Arabian horses, many sired by his prized stallion, Dalizar.

Keith competed in Arabian horse shows at the state, regional, national, and international levels. Keith was also an avid outdoorsman who loved to fish and hunt deer and elk. Keith retired to the Hayward area in 2012. He loved to sit on the dock in his backyard where he enjoyed the sunshine, watched the swans, ducks, geese, and eagles, and fished.

Keith is survived by his wife Lois Sanders and his stepson Steve (Kari) Genson. He is also survived by his brother, Larry (Karen) Sanders and 2 nieces in Eudora, KS. Keith is preceded in death by his parents and 5 siblings.

Following cremation, private services will be held with Keith’s immediate family. As an expression of sympathy, you may wish to make a memorial to St. Jude Research Hospital.

Last Update: Sep 24, 2025 8:21 am CDT