Charles D. Sandford, president of BAG MAKERS, Inc. (asi/37940), died on Friday, December 2 following a year-long battle with cancer. He was 70.

Known as Chuck, Sandford joined his wife Maribeth (the company’s founder and CEO) at Bag Makers in 1992 and was named president shortly after.

“I am joined by the entire Bag Makers family in grieving the loss of a great man who was beloved and respected by employees, customers and friends throughout the promotional products industry,” said Maribeth. “For 25 years, Chuck helped guide our company with his strong business acumen, principled integrity, and compassion. He was enormously proud of Bag Makers and our employees. Those of us who had the honor of working with Chuck will remember his leadership, generosity and fairness. He will be greatly missed.”

The couple launched their own thoroughbred racing stable in 2010, and had a horse in the Kentucky Derby just two years later.

Along with his wife, Sandford is survived by his two children, Paul Fleming and Jennifer Madai, five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Friends are invited to celebrate Chuck’s life at Joe’s Place, 19716 E. Grant Highway, Marengo, Ill., on Monday, December 5 from 3-6 p.m.