Earl Saunders

Earl William “Sandy” Saunders, 72, passed away peacefully on May 30, 2017 in the presence of his loving family.

Sandy was the true definition of a family man.  He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend to many.

Since 1970, he was a strong supporter of the Teamsters Local 397.  He worked for Lyons Transportation Lines (LTL) and retired from Consolidated Freight in 2000.  Sandy made the most out of his retirement by participating in several leagues at both Eastway and Eastland Bowling, where he served as Secretary and Treasurer.  Sandy will be famously remembered as the mascot for the Strong Vincent Colonels Girls’ Bowling Team.

Sandy always enjoyed trips to Presque Isle Downs and Casino, especially spending family night watching the horse races with his beloved wife Patty.  At home, Sandy was an avid gardener and puzzle master.  In his earlier days, he served in the Army National Guard as a Corporal from 1960-1970.

Sandy was preceded in death by two sons, Earl “Bill” Saunders and Robert “Bob” Saunders, his parents Arthur Paul Saunders and Edith Bonkowski, and sister Mary Lou Hardin.  He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Patricia G. Saunders, his daughters Becky Leone (Ralph), Robin Saunders, and his stepfather, Harry Bonkowski.  He will be deeply missed by his six grandchildren Anna, Vincent, Tricia, Anthony, Carolyn and Robert. His seven great-grandchildren Isabella, Addison, Mia, AJ, Zac, Paislee and Carson. His siblings George Saunders (Debbie), Sue Fargiorgio, Judy Meucci (Mike), Sandra Lipchik (Jack) and Dwayne Blose (Darrin) also survive.

Friends may call at Burton Funeral Home and Crematory Inc., 602 West Tenth Street, Erie, PA 16502 on Friday from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm-8pm. Service will be held Saturday at 11 am with Reverend Brenda Martin officiating.