May 31, 1929 - August 2, 2021
It is with profound sadness, the family announces the passing of William Alfred John (Brick) Saunders on August 2, 2021 at the age of 92. Brick was born to Alfred and Clara Saunders on May 31, 1929 in Trail, BC.
His nickname "Brick" stuck with him his whole life due to his bright red hair as a child. He grew up in Trail where the family operated a bakery that was located where the Best Western sits today.
He started working at an early age to help with family expenses. He worked at Cominco, Waldie's Hardware and Waldie's Saw Mill.
He then went to work for Celgar Pulp Mill in 1959 where he worked in Purchasing until his retirement.
Brick married Joy Tracey Defoe in 1952 and they created a loving home in Castlegar for their two sons.
Brick enjoyed life and loved to play the alto saxophone in a dance band that often was the house band at Playmore Hall.
Brick was an active member of the community, managing & coaching in Minor Hockey and traveling with the team when his sons played.
He was a proud member of the Kinsmen Club. He loved to escape the town on weekends and vacations by going to Deer Park on the Arrow Lakes and then latterly Lardeau on Kootenay Lake to enjoy the peace with Joy and his two boys. He became an avid fisherman, but mostly just loved to be out in his boat.
Brick was predeceased by his parents, Alfred and Clara, his wife, Joy and his sisters Ora and Hazel. Brick and Joy were married 67+ years and leave to mourn two children: Son Alfred (Evelyn) and grandchildren Kendall (Jen), Candice, William (Jacqueline), Wayne, Brian & Lorilei (Connor) Son Ross (Nedda) and grandchildren Dustin (Tatjana), Gessy and Kaitlun and many great grandchildren.
Donations are gratefully accepted in Brick's memory to Talarico Place in Castlegar where both he and Joy received compassionate care during their last few years. The family would graciously like to thank Dr. Ankenbaur and all the wonderful professionals at Talarico Place for their above and beyond care over the past number of years.
A Celebration of Life, for both Brick and Joy will be held in the late summer (date to be announced).
For those wishing to leave condolences, please go to: www.castlegarfuneral.com
Castlegar Funeral Chapel