Richard “Rick” Sanders, 48, was a lifelong resident of Winchester, Indiana, whose passion for service and adventure defined his every moment. On Thursday, December 12, 2024, he passed away doing what he loved, responding to a fire run.

From a young age, Rick had a fearless spirit. He became a firefighter cadet in high school and, eager to chase his dreams, earned his GED ahead of his class. Rick had been a dedicated firefighter since 2008, serving both the Winchester and White River Township Fire Departments and was a proud member of the Winchester Masonic Lodge #56.

In 2002, he built his own business from the ground up with nothing but a tow truck and a phone. Through sheer determination and an unmatched work ethic, he grew Sanders’ Service Auto Repair and Towing into a thriving company. Being WreckMaster Certified, made no challenge too big for Rick to attempt. Whether responding to a fire, assisting stranded drivers, or lending a hand in the community, Rick was always among the first to step up.

Rick was known for his larger-than-life personality. He never met a stranger, could talk to anyone for hours, and had an uncanny ability to fix just about anything. Though often gruff and blunt, his heart was as big as his presence. He was the go-to person in any crisis, the one who ran toward danger when others ran away.

Rick embraced life at full speed. He loved fast trucks, motorcycles, scuba diving, roller coasters, and camping. Rick rescued several dogs that became his best friends. Rick was rarely seen without his dogs, and they would often get served at the local ice cream shop before Rick.

A devoted family man, Rick married his wife, Billie, in 2005. He was a loving father to Amanda, Abbey, Jonathan, and Joseph and a proud grandfather to Kitsey Jo, Aubriella, and Max. Heartbreakingly, his youngest granddaughter, Sadie, was born after his passing and will never get to experience his boundless love firsthand. Even with all that Rick did, he would gladly put down his wrench to love on or spend time with these precious little ones.

Rick’s impact on Winchester was immeasurable. Whether volunteering, supporting local fundraisers, or being one of the first on the scene after the Winchester tornado, he was always ready to help. His loss leaves a void that no one person could ever fill.

Rick may not have lived as many years as we wished, but he lived more in those years than most do in a lifetime. His sarcastic humor, his relentless drive, and his unwavering dedication to others made him unforgettable. He was, and always will be, our favorite grumpy person and our hero.