Obituary of Ronald E. Saunders

SAUNDERS, Ronald E. Our best friend and father, Ronald E. Saunders, in his 91st year, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 31st at home. Ron was the loving husband of the late Elizabeth (Betty) Saunders and devoted father of Deb (Saunders) and Everett Rogers of Massachusetts and Sherry (Saunders) and Fred Knudstrup of Winona, the cherished Grampy of Jessica Rogers (Chuck Robison), Michael Rogers (Jennifer Moore) and the Great-Grampy of Tayla Rogers. Ron is also survived by his very dear sister, Hazel Cooper of Saint John and several loving nieces and nephews in New Brunswick and Ontario. He will be greatly missed by us all. Dad was born in Saint John and raised in Welsford, New Brunswick. A jack of all trades, he was employed in many capacities including that of a lumber jack and high rigger. A World War II veteran, Dad served in England, France and Germany, earning several medals. He never failed to remember all veterans, all the time by always wearing a poppy in his cap. After returning to New Brunswick from overseas Dad moved to Ontario with his brother Everett (Unck), and fortunately met his wife Betty. A self-taught man, Dad loved a challenge, and to create. His accomplishments include building the family home, the furniture within, a full sized RV and numerous mechanical projects. As a 30 year employee of Dofasco on the pickle line, he often referred to his job of lining up the pickles to jump in the jar. Did we mention his great sense of humor? Dad enjoyed spending time with his children, calling many of them Zeke. He taught many how to build anything, to take care of animals and to earn satisfaction through a job well done. He encouraged independence and critical thinking, with the hope of instilling common sense through the belief that mistakes were part of the learning process. Dad, a positive thinker, was always the first to recognize and compliment a strong effort. A big lover of animals, Dad’s constant companion a black cocker spaniel, named Molly, also known as Maggie would snuggle on his lap, sharing treats while watching the birds and squirrels. He enjoyed the beauty of the forests, from the graceful animals to the lush green colours of the trees and the rich browns in the earth. He appreciated the fruits of the soil and taught us to respect nature and the capabilities of a well plowed field. Dad loved being on his farm in New Brunswick, where Jessica and Michael spent many summers, living and learning life according to Grammy and Grampy. Ever a genuine and sincere Man’s man, Ron believed in responsibilities and accountability. A true provider for his family, or anyone in need. He often puttered behind the scenes preparing equipment and food for the former Church of Our Saviour suppers in Stoney Creek and assisted in the making of Betty’s Bars for sales in support of St. Luke’s Anglican Church in Welsford. Dad cherished the love of family and friends and would share many memories and life experiences through his infamous story telling. Janice and her family were often recipients of many of these stories. Their visits were greatly anticipated and appreciated. Dad, we are so proud and privileged to have had you. Thank you for your devotion and unconditional love. You will be forever in our hearts. Until we reunite, Rest in Peace Dad. We invite you to share in a celebration of Ron’s life through a memorial service at St. Andrew’s Anglican Church on Hwy. 8 in Grimsby on Thursday, April 5, at 10 a.m. The family would also like to thank the support of responding officers A. Leng and C. Wilson. (Donald V. Brown Funeral Home)