Walter “Sam” Saunders
Walter “Sam” Leroy Saunders, Union Gap, passed away on Aug. 17, 2010, at his home.
Walt was born on Feb. 27, 1952, in Goldendale, to Bill and Orlene Saunders. Walt graduated from Klickitat High School in 1970. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Air Force where he served his country from 1971-1975. After leaving the service, he met his wife Deborah and they were married on Sept. 26, 1975. Walt got the nickname Sam from his father. Everyone in Klickitat and Goldendale knew him as Sam.
After leaving the military he took several different jobs until he became a Klickitat County Deputy Sheriff. He received Outstanding Young Law Enforcement Officer. He was very proud of his service to the community. He also ran for Sheriff in 1982. After the election, Walt decided to move his family to Union Gap, where he resided until his death. While working several different positions at Hanford, he also founded A. S. & J Archery and worked at both until he became disabled in 2000.
Walt was an avid hunter and loved the outdoors. He enjoyed camping with his sister, Roxanne and friend Larry Taylor. He was a football fan and his favorite team was the New England Patriots. He was known as “The Patriot.”
Walt was a true American and loved his country. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin and friend. He will also be missed by his best hunting and camping buddy, Larry Taylor, of Yakima.
He is preceded in death by his father, William and mother Orlene Saunders. He is survived by his wife Debbie of 34 years; two children, Nolan Elliott and wife Marcie of West Richland; Saunsiarae (Erek) Saunders of Union Gap and wife Erynn of Canada; two sisters, Debra Williams of Wyoming, and Roxanne Roberts of Richland. He is also survived by his two grand-children, Breann and Cade Elliott; two nieces Tanya and Samantha (Samantha was his great niece and namesake but has always referred to Walt as Grandpa Sam); one nephew, Bryan Saunders and his family Evelyn, Taylor, and McKinley of Tacoma; one aunt, Blanche Clark of Goldendale, and many uncles, cousins and friends. Also surviving are his step-mother Dorothy Maw and husband Vern of Goldendale, step-brothers Robbie Clary from White Salmon and Dick Clary of Seattle. He had a soft heart for animals and his most prized possession was his dog, Roxy. She will also miss him greatly.
Walt was a wonderful and loving person and will be missed by all of those whose lives he has touched.
Walt has requested no services but a memorial luncheon will be held in Goldendale on Sept. 11, at 2 p.m. at the American Legion.
Donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Goldendale American Legion.
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