Walter J. Sanborn passed away at the age of 80 after a long-time battle with a multitude of health issues on October 27, 2021.  He was born to Daniel and Muriel Sanborn January 21,1941.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; sons, Kelly (Gwen) Sanborn and Craig Sanborn; grandchildren: Margaret, Olivia and Benjamin; and longtime family friend, Lilli. In addition, he left behind siblings: Sylvia Cockayne, Ronald (Donna) Sanborn and Lisle Sanborn and several nieces and nephews.

Walt was a fun-loving gentle person who always put other people first. He had an extraordinary sense of humor which lasted till the very end of his life.

Walt went to Canton Tech for Mechanical Engineering, to Monroe Community college for a degree in Applied Science and Technology and Rochester Institute of Technology for his bachelor’s degree. In addition, he continued taking courses when his job in Research and Development at Xerox called for it.

He was an excellent photographer with an eye for capturing emotions, special moments and scenery, he was sought after as a wedding photographer. He worked with the photo program at RIT on cutting edge imaging. Walt was a talented metal sculpture-creator. He was always researching new scientific developments. He was able to identify any make year and model of car he came across. He worked for Union Carbide, Bausch and Lomb and, lastly in Research and Development for Xerox for 35 years until he retired. His name was on several patents held by Xerox.

He loved music and attending concerts. Walt also enjoyed biking, hiking and spending time with friends.

Walt was involved in refugee resettlement activities through South Presbyterian Church with Vietnamese refugees who became dear friends and extended family.

Walter’s family would like to thank staff, nurses and doctors at Strong Memorial Hospital for their care and compassion.

Calling hours will be from 4:00-6:00pm on Friday, Nov. 12, 2021 at Miller Funeral Home 3325 Winton Road South Rochester, NY 14623.  His funeral service will be held at 11:00am on Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021 at Downtown United Presbyterian Church, 121 Fitzhugh St. N, Rochester, NY 14614.  Masks will be required for calling hours and service.

CLICK HERE for a map and directions to the Downtown Presbyterian Church

For those unable to attend, watch the live stream HERE at 11:00am on Saturday, Nov. 13th.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice or plant a tree in Walt’s honor.