Sterling was born in Ogden, Utah, in 1944 to Cleon and Dorothy Sanders. He was the second of four brothers and had three older half-siblings. He grew up in Ogden, where he attended Mound Fort School and Ben Lomond High School, and later briefly attended Weber College. Before his marriage to Anne Jensen Thompson in 1991, Sterling was the father of a daughter, Michele. He worked for many years as a lineman for Utah Power & Light, a career that suited his practical skills and strong work ethic.

Sterling found great enjoyment in the outdoors. While living in Sandpoint, Idaho, he spent hours on his cabin porch with his dog, making calls to the birds at his feeders. He loved taking his catamaran out on the water and once served as a fire lookout in the Idaho forests. Later, he worked as a park ranger on Antelope Island, where he also photographed wildlife.

Sterling expressed himself creatively through metalworking, woodworking, and photography. He created many unique pieces, with his woodwork often featuring distinctive porcupine quill details. As a member of the Ogden Photo Club, he was recognized for his artistic eye and photographic work.

Sterling was preceded in death by his parents, Cleon and Dorothy Sanders; his older half-brothers, Gail and Jerry; and his brother, Steven. He is survived by his wife, Anne; his brothers, Larry and David; his daughter, Michele; and his stepsons, Chad, Jeff, and Renn Thompson.

An informal viewing was held on January 31. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 7, at 2:00 p.m. at Russon Mortuary, 1585 W. 300 S., Syracuse, Utah. An excursion to Antelope Island will follow.

Online guest book at www.russonmortuary.com (https://www.russonmortuary.com)