John Saunders

John M Saunders, 90, of Oak Park Heights, MN formerly of Stone Lake, WI, passed away comfortably on Friday, January 31, 2025.

John was born July 23, 1934 in Sioux City, Iowa, son of Merwin B. and Frances M. Saunders. In his adult life, his journey eventually led him to join the U.S. Army where he was stationed in Schleissheim, Germany where he met Gerda (Beyer) Saunders, his wife of 68 years.

After his career as an Industrial Engineer, he and Gerda retired to Stone Lake, WI where John became a dedicated volunteer for CAMBA, the Birkebeiner Cross Country Ski race as well as a member of the Stone Lake Lions Club. He thoroughly enjoyed the "Up North" lifestyle and became a well-known figure within the community.

Later in life, he and his wife, Gerda, settled into Boutwells Landing Retirement Community, where John became an active member of the Model Train Club.

John is survived by his wife, Gerda; his three daughters, Patricia (Dennis) Pearson, Tina Saunders Moore, and Kathryn (Tom) Kittel; as well as grandchildren, Andrew Pearson and Sean Moore. Preceded in death by grandson, Samuel Pearson; and sisters, Bonnie Jean Saunders, Mary (Pat) Mustard, Lucille M Saunders and Pauline (Al) Guillaume.

Mass of Christian Burial 10:30am Thursday, February 13th at Bradshaw, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd., Stillwater, with visitation beginning at 9am. In Lieu of flowers, donations are welcome to honor John Saunders to: Chequamegan Area Bike Association, PO Box 141, Cable, WI 54821 or American Birkebeiner Ski Foundation, PO Box 911, Hayward, WI 54842.