A man who helped make Prince George what it is today has passed away.
Horst Sander died last week (on Monday, September 9th).
He was 91.
After growing up in Germany during World War II, he left the country and in 1963, he and his wife Helma made Prince George their home.
He took on a career in the forest industry, eventually serving as the President and CEO of Northwood Inc. from 1979 to 1990.
Sander was heavily involved in community service, and played a played a part in establishing UNBC and the Child Development Centre.
He also served on the boards of UNBC, the Prince George Community Foundation, the PG Regional Hospital, and the BC Premiers Advisory Council.
He was recognized as the Prince George Citizen of the Year in 1999 and was awarded an honourary degree from UNBC in 2000, and received Her Majesty the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal in 2002.
Sander was predeceased by Helma in 2020.
He leaves behind three daughters, four grandchildren, and one great-grandchild.
A celebration of life and reception will be held on Sunday, October 13th at the Coast Inn of the North Ballroom, at 11:30 am.
The Prince George Community Foundation has issued the following statement:
“The Prince George Community Foundation is deeply saddened by the passing of Horst, a 1999 Citizen of the Year honoree and honorary member of the Foundation. Horst was a dedicated advocate for our community, demonstrating unwavering belief in the people of Prince George and the work they accomplish. Even in retirement, he remained actively engaged, and we are profoundly grateful for his friendship and enduring commitment to the Foundation. Our heartfelt condolences go out to his family during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sander Family Fund through the Prince George Community Foundation here: https://pgcf.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create?funit_id=1159“
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