William Edward Saunders Jr, 72

11/22/2022

WINDSOR, Mass. — After a courageous three year battle with cancer, William Edward Saunders Jr., 72, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.
William was born in North Adams on June 29, 1950 a son of the late William Edward Sr & Alice Lillian (Walker) Saunders. He attended local schools and graduated from McCann Technical High School and North Adams State College as a software engineer. He married his beloved wife, Diane (Rarick) Saunders on July 24, 1971.
After 43 years at General Dynamics he retired in 2013 as a software engineer. He also was a licensed electrician and enjoyed building things as well as working on his home and his children’s. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and playing his guitar especially at Christmas, singing carols with his family.
Before his illness, he enjoyed traveling to the Caribbean Islands with his wife. He visited Aruba, Bahamas, Jamaica, Bermuda, Tortola, St. Thomas, St. Croix and Punta Cana. He also enjoyed going to the casino especially in Atlantic City.
While undergoing treatments, Bill’s most important goal was being able to attend his grandchildren’s sporting events, Christopher at baseball, Madison at soccer and softball and Cameron at basketball. He was so proud of their accomplishments.
Bill leaves behind his wife, Diane (Rarick) Saunders, daughters, Tricia Saunders, Tammy Barosso (Michael) and his son Ryan Saunders (Lynn). He also leaves Ryan Costine who he thought of as a second son. William also leaves his grandchildren, Christopher Barosso and Madison and Cameron Saunders; his brother, Donald Saunders (Karen), sisters Marcia Ray (Larry) and Susan Grande ( Charles) as well as his good friend Bob Belanger, and beloved puppies Sasha and Maverick as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

FUNERAL NOTICE: A service to celebrate the life of William Saunders Jr. will be on Tuesday November 29, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Flynn & Dagnoli – WEST CHAPEL 521 West Main St. North Adams, MA. Calling hours will be on Monday from 4-7 PM. Donations may be made to POPCARES through the funeral home. To add to the book of memories please visit www.flynndagnolifuneralhomes.com

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OBITUARIES

William Edward Saunders Jr, 72

Memorials

Sue and family, I was so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. I went to high school with Bill. He was a great guy. My sincere sympathy.
from: Don Mastroianni	on: 11-30-2022

My respect and sincere condolences to the Saunders family.
from: Jim Wolfe	on: 11-29-2022

Bill was a great co-worker and a very friendly person. He was always willing to help you whenever you needed help. My deepest condolences to the entire family.
from: Bernie Ventresca	on: 11-28-2022

I’m sad and sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. He’s a hardworking guy and a great person all around. Super engineer! Had many fun conversations with him. Still amazed at how he built his home almost single handed. My condolences to the family and friends. Raising my PBR to you Bill! Rest in peace my friend.
from: Chris Wilczak	on: 11-28-2022

To Bill's family, I am sorry to read of Bill's passing. My thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time.
from: Bet (Mastroianni) Azar	on: 11-25-2022

Diane, Tammy, Tricia and Ryan. My prayers and thoughts are with you at this time in Christ Jesus. And my parents (Uncle Bill and Aunt Pat) pass along their love. Billy Jr
from: William H Fix Jr	on: 11-25-2022

So sorry for your loss
from: MaryEllen Morrissey	on: 11-25-2022

Diane, I am so sorry to hear of Bills passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. Please extend our sympathy to the rest of the family. God Bless?
from: Glenn & Sandy Girard	on: 11-25-2022

I am glad you have so many wonderful memories to cherish with Bill, but I know that doesn’t lessen the pain of losing him. He fought hard for all of you. You now have the most amazing guardian angel looking down watching over you all. All of you are in our thoughts and prayers, and ready to help in any way.
from: Carol & John Filiault	on: 11-24-2022

Diane, please know that I am sending out my condolences in my thoughts and prayers to you and your entire family. I am so sorry to hear of your husband’s passing.
from: Wendy Robert	on: 11-23-2022