Martin Van Buren "Van" Sanders, 83 of Bamberg, SC , passed away peacefully at home on May 2, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.  Born May 9, 1941 in Olar.  Van spent a lifetime rooted in family and hard work.

A devoted father and proud grandfather and great-grandfather, Van's greatest joy came from the people he loved whether teaching a grandchild how to plant a seed or telling stories from his younger days, he always made time for those who mattered most.

Van had a deep love for the outdoors.  He found peace and purpose in the gardening and his hands were rarely without soil.

He will be remembered not only for his green thumb and strong work ethic, but for his generosity and the way he made everyone feel welcome.

Van is survived by his children, Martin Sanders (Sherri), Rusty Sanders, Amy Wood(Roy), and Rebecca McCollum (Shannon); step-children, Tammy Yingling (Pete). Christine Hill, Tony Rowell (Cathy), Dale Rowell (Crystal) and Donna Rowell; grandchildren Frankey Jones (Kevin),Bobby Joe Brown, Kimberly Rowell, Jessica Kennerly (Alex), Joshua Hill (Brittany), Rachel Hodge, Trevor Rowell, Courtney Still (Matt) Jeremy Hill, Jacob Hodge (Autumn), Dillion McCollum, Katie McCollum (Dylan), Cheyenne Rowell (Thomas) and Mason McCollum (Caitlin) ; a special sister-in-law Daisy Davis and 15 great-grandchildren; a sister, Ada Carroll; nephews Craig Carroll and Robbie Carroll.    He was preceded in death by his daughter, Vaness Janssen, and his wife Irene Sanders,

Funeral Services will be 2:00 PM Sunday, May 4, 2025 at Springtown Baptist church with the Rev, Charles Mosier officiating.  Burial will follow in the Church cemetery.  The family will receive friends at the Church one hour prior to the services.