Jerry Saunders

Jerry Lee Saunders was born June 2, 1932, in Fort Madison, Iowa to William “Roy” and Martha “Betty” (Morris) Saunders. He passed away at his home in Altoona on November 9, 2021, at the age of 89.

He graduated from Fort Madison Public High School in 1950 and attended the University of Iowa. Jerry served an electrical apprenticeship with the Santa Fe Railroad and worked at Chevron Chemicals Ortho Plant in Fort Madison for 15 years. He later worked and retired from the Firestone Agricultural Tire Plant in Des Moines, Iowa as a Maintenance Supervisor. In addition, Jerry owned and operated a Western Auto Store in Maquoketa, Iowa for 14 years.

Jerry served over 40 years of continuous service in the Active Army and Army Reserve, enlisting as a Private in the Iowa Army National Guard in 1951. He served on extended active duty during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars. In 1992, he retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve. He was a life member of the Reserve Officers Association, Military Officers Association of America, American Legion Post #165 in Indianola, Iowa, Des Moines Elks Lodge #98, past Exalted Ruler of Elks Lodge #374 in Fort Madison and Early Wheels of Iowa Auto Club. Jerry was a member, a deacon and an elder of the Park Avenue Presbyterian Church in Des Moines, Iowa. In retirement, he enjoyed restoring antique cars.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Lena Saunders; daughters, Julia Saunders and Melody (Michael) DeMoss; sons, Bob (Fay) Link and Scott (Ange) Saunders; eleven grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; son, Steven Saunders; and his brother, Roger Saunders.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Park Avenue Presbyterian Church in loving memory of Jerry.

The family will greet friends Saturday, November 13, 2021 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with the funeral service to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Park Avenue Presbyterian Church, 3120 SW 9th Street in Des Moines.

Jerry will be laid to rest with military honors Monday, November 15, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at Oakland Cemetery in Fort Madison, Iowa.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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