ELLSWORTH – Walter James Saunders Sr., 75, passed away Aug. 30, 2009, at Zephyr Haven Nursing Facility, Zephyrhills, Fla. He was born March 16, 1934, in Blue Hill, the son of Marion (Treworgy) and Elmore Saunders. He was a proud graduate of George Stevens Academy, Class of 1952. Walter proudly served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Korean War and was in active duty from 1953 to 1957. He also served inactive duty from 1957 to 1961. Walter had a love of antique cars and loved to attend shows with his cherry red 1969 Cougar convertible, shown many times on Wednesday night Cruisins at Jordan’s Snack Bar. Blue Hill Fair was his favorite time of year. He loved to attend all five days and help his eldest son, Walter Jr., park cars and talk with passers-by in his old hometown. No trip to the fair would be complete without King and Queen french fries, strawberry shortcake and a lobster roll. Walter coached Little League baseball for many years and loved his team, The Cubs. He had a great appreciation for George Stevens Academy and Ellsworth Eagles basketball teams and would attend games with his daughter, Theresa, by his side. He was a dedicated employee of Maine Shellfish for 45 years and retired to Zephyrhills, Fla., for winters beginning in 2001. For many years Walter gave of himself and his home to fostering children and was a member of Union Congregational Church of Ellsworth Falls. In years past he enjoyed working with and supporting his son, Walter Jr.’s endeavors with stock car racing; hunting with his son, Bradley; and in recent summers riding with and delivering wood with Bradley. Walter is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Jackie; three children, Walter James Jr. and wife, Carla, of Blue Hill, Bradley James and wife, Robyn, of Surry and Theresa Ellis and husband, Michael, of Bucksport; two grandchildren, Christopher James Saunders of Blue Hill and his companion, Kim Gabe, and Braden Michael Ellis of Bucksport; one stepgrandson, Timmy Carter of Sedgwick and his companion, Jenny Grice; one great-grandchild, Odin Gabe Saunders of Blue Hill; and one great-step-grandchild, Skyler Carter of Sedgwick. Walter was a loving son, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He will forever be loved and remain in our hearts. A celebration of his life will be held 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at Bragdon-Kelley Funeral Home, 215 Main St., Ellsworth, with a reception immediately after at the Veterans’ of Foreign Wars Hall, Eastern Road, Ellsworth. The Saunders family invites you to write your fondest memories of Walter, which will be collected in our memory basket at the service. In lieu of flowers, donations to hospice would be greatly appreciated. Send to East Pasco Hospice, 37445 Clinton Ave., Dade City, FL 33525, in memory of Walter Saunders. www.bragdonkelley.com
WALTER JAMES SAUNDERS
