Earl Saunders, 73, of South Nelson NB, passed away suddenly in Montreal on Thursday, February 13, 2025, reuniting with his beloved wife, Joyce.

He was a devoted father to his two sons, Jonathan (Mary) and Mark (Anna) and a cherished grandfather to his two adored grandchildren, Charlotte and Luke. His love extended beyond, including his good buddies, Haley, Zeus and Biscuit who brought him endless joy and companionship.

Born to his predeceased parents, Reginald and Mary in Newcastle on July 10, 1951, Earl is survived by his seven siblings: Mary (Brian) Muzzerall, James (Francis) Saunders, Elizabeth Saunders, Kathleen Saunders, Heather Saunders, Reginald Saunders and Dawn (David) Deluca. He is also predeceased by his special nephew, James Miller.

He will be greatly missed by Joyce’s family; Heather (Andy) Holyoke, Gordon (Tammy) Johnstone, Anne (Mike) Miller and Brent (Kristy) Johnstone. He leaves behind many nephews and nieces and shared a special bond with Lisa (Mike) Walsh and Sara Holyoke (Marty Jenkins) with whom he had very close relationships with.

As a young boy, growing up on the South Nelson Road, Earl was quickly given the nickname ‘Sonny’. Earl maintained many of his childhood friendships until his last day; including Gary MacTavish and David Matchett. 

His life took him as far as Toronto after he finished high school, working in various fields, trying to find his way. He met our mom upon returning to New Brunswick. They were inseparable and did everything together.

Earl earned a degree from UNB, but ultimately it was the woods where he found his calling. For the past 40+ years he was employed as a Silviculture Worker/Contractor; at one point, employing as many as 50 men and women in the area. He was an extremely compassionate employer, genuinely caring for each and every man and woman that worked for him. While running his silviculture business, Earl was also employed at Repap/UPM for 19 years.

Growing up, dad could be found at any corner of the country during baseball and hockey season. He didn’t miss a trip; even venturing to Sweden with Mark in 1997 for the journey of a lifetime. 

When mom passed away in 2016, Dad became everything to our families. As Luke and Charlotte’s sports adventures started growing, Earl was right there, every step of the way. He quickly became a fixture and friend to his new sports families.

Over time, he earned more nicknames ranging from ‘The Duke of Earl’, ‘Earl the Squirrel’ and ‘Bubba’, coined by his precious granddaughter Charlotte.

Earl had an immediate impact on everyone he met and got to know. He was a warm, welcoming man that people just naturally gravitated to. He could put you at ease. He was the most non-judgemental and selfless person, built on principles of loyalty, integrity, kindness and love. He never sought the spotlight but was always there when needed; steady, dependable and full of quiet wisdom. He lived a simplistic life and the only things that mattered to him were his family and friends; although we’ve seen many, many examples of him helping those in need without thinking twice. He was our father, our best friend and hero; the man we could only aspire to be like.

There’s a huge hole in our hearts that can never be filled. But the amazing memories we have to share will help immensely.

Everyone that knew him, understands his passion for music and as Joe Cocker said, we’ll ‘Get by with a little help from our friends’.

Dad, keep looking over us and give mom, James and Grammy K big hugs. Play ‘Ruby Tuesday’, turn the volume up and ‘keep on rockin’ in the free world’ my friend. Crack a cold one and please look down at all you’ve accomplished and know, we love you and miss you and could not be more grateful for having the most amazing role model two boys (and grandchildren) could have ever asked for.

Love you forever Bubba.

The family will receive visitors Jardine Funeral Home on Thursday, February 20, 2025 from 4-8 PM. 

The funeral service will be held from Jardine Funeral Home Chapel on a day and time to be announced. 

Burial will take place in the Saunders Cemetery later in the spring followed by an Earl style party, the more the merrier.

In Earl’s memory, donations may be made to Duchenne’s Muscular Dystrophy. 

Messages of condolence can be sent through the funeral home website: www.miramichifunerals.ca

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Jardine Funeral Home & Crematorium, 597 Old King George Highway, Miramichi, NB. Telephone: 506-622-3600 or 506-622-7464.

Special thank you to Lindsay, Nick and Candace for their compassion and bravery.