Donald Lester Saunders

July 25, 1933 – January 18, 2024

Donald Lester Saunders of Victoria, BC passed away peacefully on January 18, 2024, following a lengthy battle with dementia and cancer. Don leaves to mourn his passing his son Blaine (Kathy) of Sooke, BC; his brother Gerald (Joyce) of Prince George, BC; his grandchildren, Bradly of Blackfalds, AB, Sarah of Caroline, AB, Jessica of Sooke, BC; his great-grandson Austin of Calgary, AB; and many other relatives and friends. Don was predeceased by his daughter Sharon, and by his last life partner, Kathleen Aasen.

Don was born in Bentley, AB to Lester and Gladys Saunders. They lived in Rimbey, AB until the family moved to Ponoka, AB in 1950. Don became SRC president at Ponoka High School where he graduated in 1952. Don attended university in Edmonton, AB. Don moved back to Ponoka in 1960, with progressively responsible municipal roles. Don; his father, Lester Gordon Saunders; and his grandfather William Albert Saunders had a combined total of 100 years of municipal service. Don started in Ponoka, first as assistant secretary-treasurer, then secretary-treasurer, and from 1969 to 1979 as municipal manager. Don then moved to Camrose, AB and worked as the Camrose City Manager until 1991 when he retired and moved to Sooke, BC to run a family-owned business, and eventually moved from Sooke to Victoria. Don enjoyed flying, fishing, hunting, golfing, bowling, social cards, dancing and travel.

The family thanks the care givers and all staff at the Kiwanis Pavilion in Victoria where he spent his last few months; for their excellent care, patience and kindness.

There will be no service by request. Donations in Don’s memory can be made to:

Sharon Saunders Memorial Fund

c/o Battle River Community Foundation

PO Box 1122

Camrose, AB T4V 4E7