Willy A. A. Sander II, 73, passed away on July 1, 2025. Born on April 19, 1952, in New York, Willy lived in Queens and was the oldest of six children. After moving to Staten Island, he joined the family tradition to work on the Staten Island Ferry in New York City and served as a Deckhand and Mate. It was on Staten Island that he met his devoted and loving wife Joan, who was the love of his life.
In his spare time, Willy participated in a variety of sports, including football, competitive judo, and shooting. As a shooting sports enthusiast, he particularly enjoyed hunting with friends and family and shared his expertise by teaching range safety to youth groups. He was also a fan of professional sports and cheered on the New York teams. When he moved to Clearwater, Florida, he adopted the local teams and started cheering for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Lightning, and Rays as well.
Willy was a dedicated member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks, serving in leadership roles in both New York and Florida, including Exalted Ruler, Secretary, Trustee, State Sergeant at Arms, as well as chairman on a variety of committees. Through his involvement, he made numerous and lifelong friends.
Willy is survived by his wife Joan Procida; daughter and son-in-law Lisa (Mancuso) and Jeff Daly; grandsons Nigel, Gavin, and Sebastian Daly; siblings Dorothy Sander, Debra Sander Zarrelli, and Roger Sander; and his extended family, including many nieces and nephews who held a special place in his heart. He was preceded in death by his parents Willy Sander and Dorothy Clements and brothers Richard and Robert.
A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Willy will be remembered for his love of family and for time gathered around the table enjoying board games and the home-cooked meals he prepared. And as he would say, “the A. A. stands for absolutely adorable.” He will be missed.
A wake service will be held at Veterans Funeral Care 830 N. Belcher Rd. Clearwater, FL 33675 on Monday, July 14th, 2025 from 12pm-5pm and 7pm-9pm. A Funeral Mass will take place at Light of Christ Catholic Church 2176 Marilyn St, Clearwater, FL 33765 on Tuesday, July 15th, 2025 at 10am with burial at Calvary Catholic Cemetery to follow.
My love to Joan and the Sander family. Willie was always such a nice man with a great personality and a deep love for his family. He will be so missed.
My deepest sympathies to this wonderful family. So sorry for your loss.
Willy was a friend and client. My wife Cheryl and I always enjoyed his and Joan’s visit to our office. We loved having lunch/dinner with them as well. Willy brought a smile with a hug wrapped inside. His barley soup was fantastic which he brought to us. Since 2017, it was an honor to spend quality time with him. He is totally healed in Heaven now. I will miss our deep conversations and laughs.
Joan now it is your time to rest from all the serving you did for Willy. God will honor you as your future rests in His arms.
Thank you both for your friendship and the strong relationship we share.
Robert
He will be missed he will always have a special place in my heart
I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear uncle Willy. He has always held a special place in my heart. His kindness, strength, and fun spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Even from afar, his presence was felt and appreciated. May his soul rest in peace, and may our family find comfort and strength during this difficult time. He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.
Love Lauren, Rob,Logan and Mia
Our condolences to the entire family. We are so sorry for your loss, and may his soul rest in peace.
Joan and Lisa, thinking of you both. Willie was such a character, and I have fond memories of Christmases of yesteryear at Lisa’s and being entertained by Willie. What a character!
Keeping you in my prayers.