It is with deep sorrow and much love that we mourn Thomas “T.K.” Sanford of Brookfield, who passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at the age of 81 years from a heart attack. He was born to Robert and Patricia Sanford on July 5, 1944, in Washington D.C.
Tom grew up all over the country, but his favorite place was Big Piney, Wyoming, where his family owned a ranch and where he’d continue to visit and love the rest of his life. He served in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1971 in both Vietnam and the United States. After the war, he partnered with his childhood friend, Robert Michael, to open a business called Mojave Trading Company. Later, the two joined with Robert’s life partner, Colleen Case, to transform the company into Charro, a Mexican imports store. And, finally, Ashbys, a collectible and gift store. Ashbys expanded into 8 stores across the Midwest and was beloved by many for decades. It was at one of these stores that Tom met his wife, Sharon, who designed displays for the store.
Tom was best known for his dry sense of humor and sarcasm (he could get a room laughing in no time), his expertise with numbers (both in accounting and counting cards), telling and retelling his many stories from his rambunctious and rulebreaking youth, and his ability to make anyone feel welcome with a quick chat. Some of his favorite hobbies included reading, playing cards (especially blackjack, cribbage, and hearts), shooting pool, solving crossword puzzles, and watching sports. When he was a bit younger, he enjoyed bowling, playing basketball and golf.
Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Patricia. Tom is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sharon Sanford; son, Stephen Sanford; daughter, Emily Sanford; sister, Deborah (Benjamin) Carrick; niece, Lindsey (Daniel) Cohen; and nephew, Benjamin Carrick.
A private service was held at the family’s request in December.
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