AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today November 3, 2026
A Heartfelt Beginning: Honoring a Son's Memory
Gloria Sanderson, a resident of Pelican Narrows, opened Dwights Coffee House in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan last year. The business is named in memory of her son, Dwight, who passed away three years ago. Gloria launched the coffee house to transform her family's grief into something meaningful, inspired by Dwight's loving and kindhearted nature. "I wanted to create something meaningful from our loss and it gives us the opportunity to share love, kindness and connection in our community," Sanderson said.
Creating Community With Food and Warmth
Located about 130 kilometres north of Saskatoon, the coffee house welcomes customers with the aroma of fresh bannock and homemade soup. Gloria has always loved making soups and remembers the tradition of feeding and welcoming guests from her own upbringing. "I just remember growing up that when people came in, you always fed them and made sure they had something to drink and just made them feel welcome and I just thought that we need something like that here," she recalled.
The menu reflects these values, offering coffee, lattes, homemade soups, bannock, and a selection of pastries. Gloria’s granddaughter, Dwight’s daughter, often helps out in the shop when she is not in school.
A Family Effort to Keep Dwight's Spirit Alive
Gloria’s husband, Derrick Sanderson, plays a vital role in running the business. Though initially concerned about the challenges of opening a small business, Derrick embraced Gloria’s vision and took charge of renovating the building. "I guess I caught her vision and what she wanted to do, so from there, I just went all in and you know, here we are 16 months later and things are going awesome," Derrick said.
When the bakery supplying their breads changed direction, Derrick learned to make bannock himself by watching YouTube videos. His bannock, now a staple at the coffee house, has met high standards, as several local elders have put it to the test. "They actually test the bannock for the firmness of the bannock and overall look of it; it is actually scrutinized quite hard. But overall it's good though, people are happy with it."
Honoring Dwight Through Everyday Encounters
Inside the coffee house, a memorial table displays a photo of Dwight. Gloria shared a story of a recent visitor who recognized Dwight and remembered him as kind-hearted, emphasizing the memory's ongoing impact. The family aims to carry Dwight’s legacy of bringing people together through their hospitality and service.
Building a Space for Healing and Belonging
Dwights Coffee House serves as more than just a café. It is a space for connection, reflection, and comfort—qualities the Sanderson family believes are deeply needed in the community. Open since June 2025, the shop has welcomed residents from Prince Albert and beyond, fostering the same sense of belonging that defined their son’s spirit.
About the Reporter
The article was reported by Louise BigEagle for CBC News.
Source: cbc.ca.
