Ronald Jaye Saunders, Sr., 75, of Beulah, passed away Thursday, August 3, 2017 at Munson Medical Center, surrounded by his family.

Ron was born on October 30, 1941 in Toledo, OH to the late Karl Sylvan and Mabel (Hallier) Saunders. He married Kathleen Louise McInnis on October 8, 1960, also in Toledo.

Ron was a Master Electrician in the IBEW (Local 8). Ron was a proud Union member, and was glad for the opportunity to provide his family with a better life through his hard work. He was known for always being fair and kind to everyone, even when he was a foreman. People liked to work with Ron and appreciated his pleasant demeanor. Because of Ron's great example, his son and grandson followed in his footsteps and became electricians themselves.

Ron later moved his family to the Traverse City area, settling in Beulah. Ron took great pride in his home and was always working on improvements to his house and garage. He was very particular in having the exact measurements for his projects so that they would turn out as close to perfection as possible. He made everything he did and built look effortless.

In his younger years, Ron had an opportunity to try out for being a NASCAR driver, but he turned it down because he knew he needed to provide for his family. Until his passing he remained a great fan of NASCAR and automobile racing; his favorite driver was Dale Earnhardt, Sr. Another of Ron's favorite things was spending time outdoors; he frequently took his family camping. In his spare time he liked to ride his Harley-Davidson V-Rod, do Sudoku and crossword puzzles, and watch football—particularly the Michigan Wolverines and the Chicago Bears.

Ron would do anything to help anyone. He was noble, hardworking, quick-witted, and could always be found with a smile on his face. He was a man that loved his family, friends and co-workers. Family was always the most important thing in Ron's life, and he worked hard to ensure that his wife, children, and grandchildren had a wonderful life. Ron also loved his many pets, from the tiniest parakeet to the biggest Boxer dog. Ron left behind an amazing legacy and had a lasting impact in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Surviving Ron is his wife of 56 years, Kathleen; daughters, Tami Saunders, Dawn Saunders, and Kerri Saunders; grandchildren, Melissa Saunders, Tarah (Satya) Pillay, Emily Saunders, Ronnie Saunders, Kenny Sarkadi, and Kelli Sarkadi; great-granddaughter, Chloe; sister-in-law, Terry Saunders, and many other family members and friends.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, infant son Kenneth, son Ronald Jr.; and brothers Robert and Jerry.

The family would like to especially thank Sweetlana, Ron's Respiratory Therapist, for the exceptional care, love, friendship, and support that she gave to Ron during his prolonged illness. They all consider Sweetlana an angel of mercy. The family also wishes to thank Dr. Barraza, MD and Jodie Honsowetz, RN, BSN of Munson Hospice for helping make Ron's passing as peaceful as possible.

A memorial service will take place on Saturday, August 19th at 1:00PM at the IBEW Local 8 Hall at 807 Lime City Rd., Rossford, OH 43460. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be directed to Habitat for Humanity Grand Traverse Region 1129 Woodmere Ave Suit F Traverse City, MI 49686.