Ernest Clarence Edward Saunders

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Ernest (Ernie) Saunders, age 89, on Wednesday, August 6th. Ernie passed peacefully with his loving wife Rosalind of 65 years at his side.

Ernie was born and raised in Wilberforce Ontario, alongside his siblings Bert, Eric, Tommy, Barb and Katie.

Ernie found his way to B. C. from Ontario in pursuit of work as a young man, and promptly met the love of his life, his future wife Rosalind. As a young family, they settled in Vavenby BC, where Ernie worked in the logging industry. Once there, they raised their family of 5 children, daughter Michele, and sons Mark, Derrick, Kevin (Karin), Ryan (Ciana). Also missing Ernie are his five lovely grandchildren Amber, Myia, Marla, Alanis and Jordan and ten great grandchildren. Sadly, however he was predeceased by his son Mark, grandson Norman and son in law Daryll.

Rosalind and Ernie eventually made their way to Nanaimo, along with their children. Ernie loved to spend his free time with his friends and his family, on a boat fishing or on a golf course. We say free time because he had a very strong work ethic that kept him working with a hammer, a wrench or a garden tool, until his body said enough! All his children, including Michele, were able to learn many skills from their dad, as they frequently worked alongside him. Mom Rosalind kept them all well fed in the meantime. As well as a large family, Ernie also had many close friends who cared deeply for him. To have Ernie as a friend was an honour. The first to offer a helping hand, he was known to all as a truly good man, always ready for a laugh, with a sparkle in his eye and an easy smile on his face.

We would also like to express thanks for the care given by the wonderful staff at Nanaimo Kiwanis Seniors home during Ernie's time there. They always went the extra mile to ensure Ernie’s needs were met and did it with a smile for him.

We hope you can join us in saying farewell to Ernie on Tuesday August 19th, 2025. A service will be held at St. Mary's Church at 1130 am, 1135 Fourth Street, Ladysmith.

A private family internment will follow before a reception at the church hall.

In lieu of flowers Rosalind has requested donations to be made to BC Children’s Hospital foundation.

“A heart of gold stopped beating,

Working hands at rest,

Leaves and flowers may wither,

The golden sun may set,

But the hearts that loved you dearly

Are the ones that won’t forget.”