Obituary of R. Alexander Saunders

Robert Alexander "Alex" Saunders

April 20, 1929 – May 29, 2025

It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well lived that the family of Robert Alexander "Alex" Saunders announces his peaceful passing on May 29, 2025, at the age of 96, at the Queensway Carleton Hospital in Ottawa.

Born in Stratford, Ontario, on April 20, 1929, Alex lived a life marked by service, sport, creativity, and kindness. A talented athlete from a young age, he earned Rookie of the Year honours with the Ottawa Rough Riders in 1949 and remained active with the Ottawa CFL alumni throughout his life.

Alex proudly served his country for 25 years in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a navigator and senior officer, retiring at the rank of Major. Following his military service and a second career with the Treasury Board, Alex made a lasting impact on generations of young athletes as a legendary football coach and mentor. He co-founded the Myers Riders minor football program, coached at Sir Robert Borden High School, and served as an assistant coach with the Ottawa Bootleggers, then the top-ranked U.S. semi-professional football team.

He had a deep interest in people, was inquisitive and compassionate, and often said, “It’s a lot easier to be kind.” Alex had a passion for craftsmanship—especially copper work—loved to “fix and build things” in a true Red Green kind of way, and found great joy in helping others. He was also an avid gardener, taking great pride in creating a beautiful and peaceful garden for the love of his life, Bev, to enjoy from her favourite swing. It was one of the many quiet ways he showed his love.

Above all, Alex cherished his role as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. His family was his pride and joy.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Beverley Elizabeth Saunders (née Joynt). He is survived by his loving children Alex, Julia, Tim, and Sheila, his 11 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Mary Frkovich (née Saunders).

A Celebration of Life and Funeral will be held at Cole Funeral Services and Pinecrest Cemetery, on Saturday, July 5, 2025 from 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.  Words of Remembrance at 1:00 p.m. 

The family would like to express heartfelt thanks to companions and caregivers Stephanie Meldrum and Inez Quinn, and to the kind staff at Valley Stream Retirement Home for their care and compassion.

In remembrance of Alex Saunders, in lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Ottawa Humane Society, or a charity of your choice.

Alex was often moved to quote the words of Frank Lebby Stanton:

“This world that we’re a-livin’ in

Is mighty hard to beat;

You git a thorn with every rose,

But ain’t the roses sweet!”