WARREN – M. Douglas Sanderson, 74, died at his home, Sunday, November 5, 2017, following a brief battle with cancer.

Born in New Bedford, Massachusetts, June 24, 1943, his birth parents were Ernest E. and Mary Wiggins Rich.  After being adopted at a young age by Linwood F. and Gertrude Staples Sanderson, Doug grew up in Searsmont, where he attended local schools.

In earlier years of his career, he worked in shoe shops in Massachusetts and Belfast.  He later worked many years at Knight Marine Service in Rockland, where he was considered an accomplished bright finisher.

Doug enjoyed keeping his yard in immaculate condition, wood carving and camping, where he reveled as a story teller.  He was an ardent John Wayne fan and did a remarkable job impersonating that celebrity.

Other than his parents, Doug was predeceased by a brother, Robert M. Rich.  He is survived by one brother, Jim Rich and his wife Nonie, of Warren ,and a sister Mary Barber of Thomaston.

No services are planned at this time.

Doug will be buried privately with his family at Mount Solitude Cemetery in Monroe. 

Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, Rockland.   To share a memory or condolence with Doug’s family, please visit his online Book of Memories at www.bchfh.com.