Verne R. Sanford

Verne Sanford, a long-time resident of Valparaiso, passed away on Jan. 23, 2022 at the age of 86. Verne was born in Waukegan, Illinois. He came to Valparaiso University in 1960 as an instructor of mathematics. He stayed for one year then attended graduate school at the University of Michigan, where he earned a master’s degree in public health in 1965 and a Ph.D. in biostatistics in 1970. Verne completed his undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota, where he received a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1957, then an M.S. in 1959. He returned to Valpo as an assistant professor of mathematics in 1967. He was a member of Immanuel Lutheran Church and participated in many Valparaiso organizations.

In addition to his teaching, Professor Sanford served as chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science from 1980–1983 and coordinator of the department’s cooperative education program from 1985–1993. He served on the University Senate from 1985–1988.

Verne is survived by his wife, Marie; children Colleen Sanford ’84 Prough (Donald ’84), Keith Sanford ’84, Paul Sanford ’88, Linda Sanford ’89 Mader, and Amy Sanford ’92 Pendowski; grandchildren Owen (Samantha ’12) Prough ‘’12; Emily Prough ‘’12, ’15 M.A.; Nola Prough ’15; and Lois Prough; great grandchild, Alex; and sisters Delores and Carol.

Professor Sanford was an inspiration to several generations of students and colleagues because of his courage and determination in overcoming a potentially crippling disability. Legally blind as the result of a childhood infection, he was able to make use of what little sight he had to find his way through high school, college, and graduate school. He was hard-working and creative in his efforts to secure a first-rate education.

A memorial service was held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, Indiana.