Russell William Saunders

The lights begin to twinkle from the rocks, the long day wanes, the slow moon climbs, the deep moans round with many voices. Come, my friends, 'Tis not too late to seek a newer world. Push off, and sitting well in order smite the sounding furrows. For my purpose holds. To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths of all the western stars, until I die."

Obituary

We share the news of the passing of Russell William Saunders and remember his life with respect and care.

Russell was the father of three children and grandfather to six. Over the years, he built many meaningful relationships, including with his chosen family in the Dominican Republic, where he spent a significant part of his later life surrounded by friendship and support.

He was predeceased by his wife of many years, Marilyn (Whynacht) Saunders; his parents, John Walter Saunders and Evelyn Saunders; and his siblings Dorothy, Wanda, Joe, Bruce, Lawrence, Walter, and Evan.

He is survived by his children and their families, including his six grandchildren; one great grand child; his siblings Frances and Earl; and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Russell’s life included many chapters—full of experiences, joys, and challenges. In his later years, following a stroke, he experienced significant health changes, but remained surrounded by people who cared for him.

He will be remembered in many different ways by those who knew him. We invite you to hold onto your own memories of him, and to share them from time to time—those small stories that often begin with, “I remember when…”

As we say goodbye, we hold hope that he is at peace, restored and whole, and reunited with Marilyn and those who went before him.

May he rest peacefully.

Gallery

Memory wall

August 2, 2026

Uncle Russ was always working on some project or another and I recall him sharing stories on many of them over the years. I even lived some of them, my favorite that open schooner we would sail around Mahone Bay with occasional stops for fishing. Those days have left strongly imprinted memories of a youth well spent with a large and loving family. I sadly recall the day we learned that he and dad were on the Kootenay when she exploded into a ball of hell on water. I recently read a book outlining the events that played out over those days at sea. The references to Uncle Russ speak to the love he shared with his brother— dad. I’m not sure if either of them ever recovered from that disaster and their strength to continue through life’s journey despite their pain has earned my deepest respect. I’ll miss Uncle Russ deeply and share my condolences with his children and grandchildren.

Gary Saunders

August 2, 2026

Peter, Cindy, Tammy and families, we wish to express our heartfelt condolences over the passing of your father, Russell. He was an interesting and engaging individual. Uncle Russell and Aunt Marilyn were always so warm and kind when we visited them on our annual trips to Nova Scotia. Later when we lived on a farm in Nova Scotia, your visits to us were always enjoyable and much appreciated. We got to know you, our cousins which was great. My Dad and Uncle Russell told us many stories of their childhoods and upbringing, which invariably included their other siblings. And there would always be a few jokes tossed into any conversation to keep it humorous. I was always interested in hearing Uncle Russell’s stories of when he was a young sailor, and later our conversations turned to when he built boats and ships. Uncle Russell has moved on and is now amongst some family members and loved ones. He will be missed but not forgotten. Rest in Peace Russell.

Mike Saunders

August 2, 2026

I am so sorry to hear about Russell passing, I have many fond memories of visiting Marylin, Russ and family. He was very interesting, with lots of stories to tell. Hold close your treasured memories, with Heartfelt Sympathy.
Love Edith

Edith Saunders

August 2, 2026

I remember Uncle Russell as a man of very diverse interests. He was always entertaining and treated me with love. He is reunited with so many of his siblings and family, gives me solace.

Debbie Saunders

August 2, 2026

So appreciated having him as my / our dear Uncle. It was always a joy to talk to him and learn from him He was one who encouraged us to move and said "You can doit" . May he rest til the resurrection

Nancy Jordan

August 2, 2026

So incredibly sorry for the loss of your dad. He was such an incredible Uncle growing up. I’m glad I got to see him during one of his visits home.

Heather Langille

August 2, 2026

Poppy❤️

Emma