Obituary of Gary Saunders

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Gary Edward Saunders, age 70, who left us peacefully on November 24th, surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, proud father, cherished grandfather, loving brother, and loyal friend, Gary leaves behind a legacy of gentleness, humour, generosity, and unwavering devotion to the people he loved.

Born and raised in Grand Falls-Windsor, Newfoundland and Labrador, Gary is the beloved son of June and Edward Saunders. His life changed at just 18 years old when he met the love of his life, Shirley (Hamilton), at a local fair; a moment the family fondly jokes about, saying that Shirley “found Gary at the circus!” Their love story grew and lasted five decades. They were married on August 9, 1980, and together built a beautiful life based in laughter, loyalty, kindness, and the deep comfort of being each other’s home. Gary adored her endlessly, teasing her, dancing with her, kissing her on the forehead, and loving her with a steadiness that never wavered. 

Gary graduated from Community College in Grand Falls–Windsor and began his career as a Heavy Duty Mechanic with NL Tractor & Equipment. In 1980, he moved to Labrador City to work for the Iron Ore Company of Canada, where he trained as a Millwright. His career later took him to New Brunswick, working at Mount Pleasant Tungsten Mine in St. George, Potacan Mine in Cassidy Lake, and finally PCS/Nutrien in Sussex, where he remained until his retirement in 2017. At work, he was affectionately known as “Sneaky Saunders,” thanks to his pranks and playful mischief, traits that made him beloved by colleagues across decades and job sites.

Gary was a loving and proud father to Nicole and Tiffany, his two daughters who he adored beyond measure. He celebrated them, cheering from the sidelines, helping with school projects, dancing with them in the kitchen, helping them with their creative ideas, and showing up for every adventure, no matter how big or small. He filled their lives with laughter, quiet guidance, small surprises and a deep, enduring love. Becoming “Pops / Grandpa Banana” to his three grandsons, Wilder, Ryker, and Skander, brought Gary so much joy. His face lit up whenever he saw them, even late into his dementia. 

Gary was a true jack-of-all-trades. Whether building, fixing, painting, tinkering, or dreaming up something new, he could take care of anything. A man of many interests, Gary was happiest when he had a project on the go. He loved collecting hockey cards and coins and could often be found woodworking, gardening, cooking, golfing, or curling. He loved antique cars, especially 55 Chevy’s and he was a loyal Toronto Maple Leafs fan who, despite it all, never gave up on his team. 

But above all, Gary was defined by his kindness. Known for his soft-spoken nature and gentle soul, he was always ready to lend a hand to anyone who needed it. From helping anyone needing fix-it jobs to taking out his elderly neighbors’ trash. His quiet strength, patient heart, and subtle humour brightened the lives of everyone around him. 

Gary faced dementia with the same quiet courage that marked his life. He hid his struggles for as long as he could, determined to protect the people he loved. In the later stages, when words had become difficult, his love remained clear in the winks, the smiles, the small squeezes of his hand, and the instinctive way he always sided with his wife. 

Gary is survived by his wife Shirley; his daughters, Nicole Reynolds (Galen) and Tiffany Saunders (James); his adored grandsons, Wilder, Ryker, and Skander; his brothers and sisters, Marlene Saunders, Sharon O’Driscoll (Denis), John Saunders (Debbie); his brother-in-law Don Hamilton (Pam) and many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends who loved him deeply including Marion & Gary Bonnell who have been by his side for almost 4 and a half decades. He is predeceased by his father, Edward Saunders and his mother, June and his mother-in-law, Evelyn and, father-in-law, Alex Hamilton.

It is our privilege, and our heartbreak, to celebrate Gary, a man whose warmth, humour, and loving spirit will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished, the friendships he built, the work he took pride in, and the countless lives he touched with quiet generosity and lovingly mischievous fun. We will carry his memory with us today, tomorrow, and always.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Wallace Funeral Home, 34 Sunnyside Dr Sussex, NB (506-433-1176) from where visitation will be held on Wednesday, November 26th from 6-8 pm. A Celebration of Gary’s life will be held from Wallace Community Chapel on November 27th at 2 pm. A time of fellowship with the family will be held in the Wallace Reception Area immediately following the service. 

Donations in memory of Gary may be made to the NB Alzheimer's Society or to a charity of the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and donations may be made through wallacefuneralhome.com.