Michael Robert Sanders

Michael Robert Sanders, 21 of Ottumwa, IA, died Sunday, April 21, 2024, in Fremont, California.

Michael was born August 17, 2002, in Rock Island, IL, the son of Melinda Sanders. He attended Ottumwa Chistian School, after graduating from elementary school where he was entered into the talented and gifted program. Some of Michael’s talents that he excelled in were math, writing, and art. At 16 years old he started his first job at Sirloin Stockade where his mother, Melinda and sister Layla, were also employed. He regularly attended church and youth group with his family. Michael enjoyed listening to music, swimming, writing, painting, and cooking. He loved spending time with his mom Melinda, sister Layla, brothers Levi and chance, grandmas Donna and Jane, and his best friend Trayten. He loved many other family and friends. He also loved telling everyone about his faith in Jesus. 

Survivors include his mother, Melinda Sanders of Washington, father James Mensing of Des Moines; sisters Layla Pena of Washington and Danyella Ault of Des Moines; brothers Levi Moreno of Washington and Chance Courtney of Ottumwa; Maternal grandparents Donna Shaffer and James Sanders; Paternal grandmother Jane Henman.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather Merle Powell.