Cecil R. SandersAug. 14, 1934 - April 14, 2017SalinasCecil R. Sanders, 82, passed away peacefully, after a brief illness on Good Friday, April 14, 2017, surrounded by the care, comfort and love of his family. He was born on August 14, 1934 in Salinas, California; where he spent his life working and raising his family.He worked as a harvesting contractor in the sugar beet business with his father and owned his own trucking business, where he hauled goods all over Northern California. He began employment as a mechanic at Merrill Farms in the early 1960's, working his way up to become the shop foreman. Cecil was a pioneer of agricultural mechanization, designing and constructing hydraulic field harvesting machines in the late 1960's. An expert mechanic, it seemed that he could instantly tell what was wrong with a vehicle just by turning it on and listening to the sound of the engine. He retired after 34 years with the company. He was an active member of the Salinas Elks Club and enjoyed fishing at the San Luis Reservoir with friends. He loved to take pictures with new camera technology. His family was most important to him and he loved being with them and having lunch together or attending family gatherings. He adored his grandchildren; who were the "apples of his eye".  Cecil was always ready and willing to help others when needed.The family would like to thank various members of the staff of the rehabilitation center where Cecil stayed prior to his passing, especially Lupe, Gina and Paul; whose compassion knew no bounds, and Roy, who always cooked a pleasing meal for Cecil. "Thank you for your kindness".Cecil is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 63 years, Euphama Sanders; his son, Judge Steven R. Sanders and his wife, Francisca of Hollister; granddaughter, Ashley Meredith Sanders of Sacramento; grandson, Reed Patrick Sanders of Hollister; sister, Betty Ferguson of Arizona; brother-in-law, Earl Prescott of Salinas along with numerous nieces and nephews.He is preceded in death by his parents, Cecil G. and Minnie Sanders; sister, Barbara Prescott and his brother-in-law, Jack Ferguson.Visitation will be held on Monday, April 24, 2017 1-9pm at Healey Mortuary 405 N. Sanborn Rd Salinas, CA  93905.Graveside Services will take place on Tuesday, April 25, 2017 11am at the Garden of Memories Cemetery 850 Abbott St. Salinas, CA  93901.Arrangements are entrusted to Healey Mortuary & Crematory/www.healeymortuary.com