David D. Saunders

David D. Saunders, 91, of Wabasha, died Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013, at St. Elizabeth's Health Care Center in Wabasha.

He was born March 1, 1922, in Wabasha, the son of Walter F. and Clara (Gosse) Saunders. He was a graduate of St. Felix High School in Wabasha. David married Dolores Stamschror Sept. 10, 1947, at St. Felix Catholic Church. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942-1946. He was a cook aboard transport ships that carried military personnel and supplies from the Washington coast to Japan during World War II. Upon his discharge, he returned to Wabasha. David worked with his father in operating Saunders Cafe. He then bought the cafe and, with his wife, Dolores, managed and operated the cafe until 1987 when they sold the business and retired to their home on Jefferson Avenue in Wabasha. During the last several years, David and Dolores were residents of St. Elizabeth's Assisted Living Apartments and St. Elizabeth's Health Care Center until their deaths. Dolores died Oct. 26, 2012.

David was a member of St. Felix Catholic Church. He was also a member of the Wabasha American Legion Post #50 and the Burkhardt-Roemer VFW Post #4086. He enjoyed fishing, bowling, playing cards and gardening. Together, with Dolores, they enjoyed hosting many family gatherings. He was active in many Wabasha community events where he volunteered or provided food and services.

He is survived by his sister, Joye Carroll Sundheim, Red Wing; sisters-in-law, Loretta Saunders, Hastings, Mary Ann Witte, Wabasha and Marilyn (Harry) Meyer, Wabasha; brother-in-law, Rev. Robert Stamschror, Winona; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Dolores, his parents, Walter and Clara, his sister, Jeanette Palm and his brother, Walter Wayne Saunders.

The family wishes to thank with all sincerity the staffs of St. Elizabeth's Medical Center, St. Elizabeth's Health Care Center and Mayo Hospice for the excellent care and devotion given to David while he was with them.

A funeral Mass will be offered Saturday, Dec. 21, at 11 a.m. at St. Felix Catholic Church, with the Rev. Robert Stamschror officiating. Interment will be in St. Felix Cemetery.

Casket bearers will be Steve, Denny and Peter Carroll, LeRoy Stamschror and Jack, Gary and Tom Stamschror.

Honorary bearers will be Charles Schneider, Bruce Welt and Joel Schafer.

Military rites will be performed by the Wabasha American Legion and VFW Posts.

Family and friends may call at the church Saturday, Dec. 21, one hour before the service.

Memorials are preferred to St. Felix School or to St. Felix Catholic Church.

The Abbott Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. abbottfh.com