Denny Sanford, the man whose visionary generosity helped transform Sanford Health into the largest nonprofit rural health system in the United States, passed away on Saturday, July 18. He was 90 years old.
Led by his own personal motto to “aspire to inspire before you expire,” Denny was more than healthcare’s greatest philanthropist. He was a friend, a champion, an inspiration and a true believer in our mission, said Deb Koski, chief philanthropy officer for the Sanford Health Foundation.
“Over his lifetime, Denny gave nearly $2 billion to Sanford Health — transforming our organization and making a difference for millions of patients and families,” Koski said.
See His Legacy
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His generosity changed healthcare for generations, empowering us to confront some of our time’s most urgent health challenges and enabling us to provide a healthier, brighter future for all.
Chief Philanthropy Officer, Sanford Health Foundation
“In addition to his own philanthropy, Denny also ignited a spirit of giving in others — inspiring thousands to give and sparking a movement of kindness and generosity across the communities we serve,” Koski said. “There has never been, and will never be, anyone like Denny. He will be deeply missed.”