Alvi Rothwell Sanders

Alvi Rothwell (Rocky) Sanders, 88, recent resident of Albuquerque, New Mexico, passed away after a short illness on Wednesday, June 1, 2022.

He was preceded in death by his father Lonnie Sanders, mother Anna Johnson and sister Emma Mae Delong.

He is survived by his wife Carma J. Sanders of Albuquerque, NM sons: James R. Sanders (Barbera) of Hartford, KY, Kenton Van Harten (Kate) of Albuquerque, NM, Jeffrey Sanders (Shari) of Vancouver, WA, daughter Pat Ashby (Jeff) of Cromwell, KY, brother Jewell Sanders (Joyce) of Olaton, KY, 6 grandchildren: Jamie Ashby, Adam Ashby, Kodi Shutt, Alex Daniel, Alex Van Harten, Cameron Sanders and thirteen great grandchildren.

Alvi was born in Ohio County, KY but had the opportunity to live in many cities and overseas. He joined the medical core of the Navy at an early age and later joined the United States Army in June of 1952. After much training in radar and missile maintenance, he was assigned to White Sands missile range and Ft. Bliss, TX.  There he met the love of his life Carma who shared his love for travel and adventure. After assignments in Michigan, Florida (Key West) and Alabama, he and his family did a three year tour in Germany. They were able to travel extensively in Germany and many other countries during this time. Upon returning from over seas, he retired from active duty at Ft. Campbell, KY. He then started his second career in civil service at Ft. Campbell where he worked as an exhibits maker in making training devices for active duty personnel.  

After retirement from civil service in 1993, he and his wife Carma were able to again travel extensively across the United States in their new motorhome where they were able to visit their children and grandchildren.

After seeing most of the US, Rocky and Carma settled back down in Clarksville, TN where they were able to enjoy multiple homes in the area before moving to an assisted home in Owensboro, KY.   There he was baptized and became a member of the Owensboro Church of Christ.  The final chapter in his adventure led him to Albuquerque, NM to be closer to his son Kenton.  He passed away after a brief stay due to multiple health issues. 

Alvi's Life Celebration will take place near his birthday. He will be laid to rest at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. Details are to be announced.

If anyone would like to donate please contribute to the Ambercare Hospice in Albuquerque 2129 Osuna Rd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87113-1002  505-244-0046.

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