Kenneth Allen Saunders, 86

Kenneth Allen Saunders passed away Nov. 14, 2024, at the Schneidmiller Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. He was 86 years old. He is survived by his sons, Brent and Craig; two grandchildren, Diana and Emily; and three great-grandchildren. Marilyn, his wife, preceded him in death by eight months.

Ken was born in Okanogan, Wash., on April 30, 1938, to Clifford Clayton and Ruth Marie Saunders. He spent his formative years in Fairfield, Wash., where he graduated from Fairfield High School in 1956. After graduation, he went to Whitworth College for a year and graduated from Washington State University in 1960 with a degree in electrical engineering.

On June 12, 1960, Ken married Marilyn Hirschel and began their life together in Livermore, Calif. Ken worked as an electrical engineer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory for 38 years. They retired to Bayview, Idaho, where he built his home and was an active member of the community. He enjoyed water skiing and bird watching as well as working on projects in his shop.

Ken was active in the First Presbyterian Church of Livermore, where he served as an elder and enjoyed singing in the choir. After he retired, Ken sang in the choir at the First Presbyterian Church in Coeur d’Alene.

A devoted husband and loving father, Ken’s kindness will be missed by his family and friends. His life will be celebrated at a memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Schneidmiller Hospice House or a donation to End Pancreatic Cancer at the American Cancer Society.

Please visit Ken’s online memorial and sign his guestbook at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com.