In Memory of

Brian

Douglas

Sanderson

Obituary for Brian Douglas Sanderson

Brian Douglas Sanderson (SANTA)
October 4 1941 – October 31 2018

It is with deep sorrow we announce the peaceful passing of Brian; husband and soul mate of the late Barbara Ann, father of James (Christine) Sanderson, Susan (Richard),Bliss, Karen (Chad) Cotterill, Sharon (Randy) Hart, Slade (Kathy) Bailey; and twelve grandchildren, Christopher(Sheryl), Lacey(Ryan), Ainsley, Breanne(Joel), Braden(McKenzie), Alexandra, Emily, Connor, Benjamin, Trevor, Drew, Erin; and seven great-grandchildren Nikiah, Owen, Elijah, Raine, Rylan, Presley, and Noah.
He leaves his best friend and partner Lillian Hallaren-Harrison and her children Craig (Susy) Debra and grandchildren Jenny, Maurice, Cody and Emily.
He leaves his brother Wayne (Lynne) and sister-in-law Eleanor, sister-in-law Sandra Sutton of Southend on Sea Essex England and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves a longtime dear friend and neighbor of fourty-three years Margret Ilderton.
Predeceased by his parents Mary and Clarence, and in-laws Ruby and Arthur, His brother Dennis and brother-in-law Barry.
Brian was born in Saskatoon Saskatchewan and grew up in Fort Rouge area in Winnipeg, he attended Churchill High school where he found his love of acting, he was still in contact with school friends and would attend bi-annual get togethers when he could. Brian was also involved in Rainbow Stage productions in his early adulthood.
Brian had many chapters in his life, his marriage to Doreen and birth of his beautiful children Jamie, Susan and Karen, his work at Bristol Aerospace where he met his good friend Peter Goodman.
His life and marriage to Barbara, his soul mate, they had over 30 years of love and good times together. Some of them being a clown with Barb and they were known as Smiles and Chuckles and entertained at many children’s parties and company picnics.
He and Barb had an antique shop for 10 years and enjoyed the company of many associates when they were members of the Manitoba Antique Association. They also ran a Hot Dog Stand for a year and enjoyed the company of the regular clients who often visited them. Brian started his Santa gig 26 years ago at Portage Place before moving to Polo Park where he has been for 20+ years.
Brian’s latest chapter started after his retirement from Mac Don Industries, he met his best friend and partner Lillian, they have attended many functions as a couple but also as Winnipeg’s own “Mr &Mrs Claus”. Brian’s retirement life has been super busy he joined the Winnipeg Golden Chordsmen in 2006 where he enjoyed performing in concerts and competitions and has made many great friends, he also joined Sing Canada, his acting career has taken off as he has appeared in many movies; Beethoven's Christmas Adventure, many Hallmark movies there are just too many to name! Brian lived his lifelong dream when he was Santa in Winnipeg’s Santa Claus Parade. He was also volunteered with many as organizations as he could.

Donations in memory of Brian can be made to “In Memory of Santa Brian Toy Drive, or Cancercare Manitoba P.O. Box 2248, Winnipeg, R3C 4A6. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, November 9th at Charleswood United Church, 4820 Roblin Blvd. at Dieppe Road.