Darrell Sandusky, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son and friend, passed away tragically on August 28, 2025, in Holland, Michigan. He was 52 years old.
He is preceded in death by his brother, Louis A. Sanders, his cousins Vickie Sandusky & Felicia Castaneda, his uncles, Juan & Trinidad Castaneda, his grandparents, Juan & Lidia Castaneda, his father, Darrell E. Sandusky, his grandparents William & Ramona Sandusky, and stepfather, Arthur Sanders.
He is survived by his wife, Lori Sandusky; children, Paul, Roth (Rothmondol), Tobi (Kaela), and Akeelah; granddaughter, Mariela; mother, Stella Castaneda-Sanders; sister, Lidia Safford & family; brother, Enrique Sanders & family; and siblings from his father’s side – Jason Sandusky, Michelle Cruz and Carmen Olivera.
Darrell was born on October 23, 1972, in Holland, Michigan, to Stella Castaneda-Sanders and Darrell E. Sandusky. He moved to Sacramento, California as a toddler where he lived with his mother, stepfather Arthur Sanders, and three siblings–Louis, Lidia, and Enrique. Darrell held many good memories in California of his Grandpa Bill, Grandma Ysabel and all the Sanders family.
The family moved back to Holland, MI in 1985 and Darrell quickly felt the love & kindness of his Aunt Vickie & kids: Mike, Steve & Christie, his grandparents, and the entire extended Sandusky family. On March 4, 1994, Darrell married the love of his life, Lori A. Sandusky, and together they enjoyed thirty-one years of marriage and lovingly raised their four children–Paul, Roth, Tobi, and Akeelah. Darrell also extended his heart to many fur-babies throughout his life, both cats and dogs. Darrell with his 1st fur pup, Ziggy started the tradition of long daily walks – walking the same trails in Saugatuck Dunes his uncle John walked when Darrell was young. Gigi will miss her walks with Darrell and their Quincy Park friends.
Darrell was a talented chef with a gift for creating great-tasting food. His passion for cooking was evident in every meal he prepared. Whether it was a simple family birthday party or a more elaborate event, his talent as a chef and baker made every occasion special. He began his work-life in restaurants, including many years at Till Midnight, and developed his skills through the culinary arts program at Grand Rapids Community College. He later worked at Johnson Controls, Inc. and Perrigo where he fostered many lifelong friendships.
Darrell and Lori believed that their family circle did not stop with immediate family – nieces, nephews, neighbors, the kid’s school friends all became family. Darrell made sure there was good food, silly games, and a safe place to land for everyone. Darrell was a selfless provider, courageous protector, and devoted presence in the lives of his family and many others. He will be lovingly remembered and dearly missed.
A memorial service for Darrell will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Trinity Reformed Church, 712 Apple Ave. Holland. A time of fellowship and lunch will follow the service. Visitation will be 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 17, at Langeland-Sterenberg Funeral Home, 315 E. 16th St. Holland.
In lieu of flowers please consideration a donation to a trust fund established for Mariela Si Sandusky. Make checks payable to: Edward Jones FBO Mariela S. Sandusky, Addressed to : Edward Jones, 217 E 24th Street , Suite 204, Holland, MI 49423 or donate to your local woman & children’s shelter for domestic violence.
Comments