Arpiar G. Saunders Sr.

WILLIAMSTOWN -- Arpiar G. Saunders Sr., 89, of Simonds Road and Eastham, died Saturday at home in Williamstown. In 1939, he founded Greylock Photoengraving Co. in North Adams, which he sold in 1973 to Excelsior Process and Engraving.

Born in Portsmouth, N.H., on June 1, 1914, son of George and Marna Krekorian Saunders, he was a 1931 graduate of Watertown High School. He also attended Burdett Business School.

An Army veteran of World War II, he served in the European theater.

Under his direction, Greylock Photoengraving worked with many national publications, including Yankee and High Fidelity magazines, various educational institutions, including Williams College and the University of Massachusetts, as well as the Clark Art Institute. Prior to 1939, he had been a statistician for the U.S. attorney general's office in Boston and an apprentice photoengraver.

Mr. Saunders spent much of his time, talent and energy contributing to the enhancement of his community. He was a lifelong YMCA member, served as a board member for the Northern Berkshire YMCA for almost 30 years, including in the positions of president, chairman of the physical education committee and national council representative. He was a member of the Williamstown Finance Committee and an incorporator of Hoosac Savings Bank.

An avid photographer, he also enjoyed sports cars, the natural world of Cape Cod Bay, sports -- especially the Red Sox -- and attempting to master the stock market.

He leaves his wife of 63 years, the former Margaret Minoogian; a son, Arpier G. Saunders Jr. of Hopkinton, N.H.; two daughters, Diane M. Saunders of North Easton and Sandra V. Saunders of Whately, and five grandchildren.

FUNERAL NOTICE -- Private funeral services for Arpiar G. Saunders, who died May 29, 2004, are under the direction of FLYNN & DAGNOLI-MONTAGNA FUNERAL HOME, North Adams, with burial in Eastlawn Cemetery in Williamstown. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions may be sent to the Armenian Relief Society Eastern United States, Nigol Aghpalian School and Mother and Child Clinic program, 80 Bigelow Ave., Suite 200, Watertown, MA 02472. Each day was spent as treasured time with his family, grandchildren and lifelong friends.