Earl M. Saunders Jr.

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Earl Marinus Saunders Jr., 90, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on November 18, 2025. He was born on October 30, 1935, in Logan, Utah, to Earl Marinus Saunders Sr. and Mildred Carlson.

Earl grew up in northern Utah and graduated from Bear River High School. Following his graduation, he faithfully served a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Central States Mission. Earl and Arlene later served as missionaries in the Orlando Florida temple and also as missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Employment center.

On May 14, 1959, Earl married his eternal companion, Arlene Spackman, in the Logan Utah Temple. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, and service. Early in their marriage, Earl and Arlene set four goals for their family: raise Eagle Scouts, be missionaries, be college graduates, and ensure temple marriages. Earl and Arlene are thankful that with the Lord’s help, all five of their sons achieved each of these goals. Earl’s love for his boys was steady and unwavering, and he dedicated his life to teaching them the values he held dear.

Earl was known for his strong work ethic. He began working at the age of 12 at the Brigham City Laundry owned by his family, spent many years working on ranches and farms, and later devoted 45 years to Anderson Lumber. Through his example, he taught his sons to work hard, be responsible, stay dependable, and serve others.

Service was a defining part of Earl’s life. He fulfilled many callings in the church including serving as bishop of the Nibley 2nd Ward. His callings involving the youth were closest to his heart. He loved the Boy Scout program and spent countless hours outdoors mentoring and guiding young people. Temple service was a big part of Earl and Arlene’s life. They faithfully attended weekly, sometimes traveling outside the valley to do it.

Earl had a great love for gardening. Though he often promised to cut back, his gardens flourished year after year- always abundant, always tended with care. His garden space often exceeded his lawn, a testament to the joy he found in nurturing living things.

Earl is preceded in death by his parents Earl and Mildred; his siblings, Lavell, Robert, Mearritta, and Sheila. As the oldest child in his family, he was the final member to be called home to join his parents and siblings.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Arlene; his sons, Mike (Mary Ann), Kyle (Audrey), Bradley (Suzanne), Steve (April), and Jason (Brendy) Saunders; 20 grandchildren; and 16½ great-grandchildren, all of whom were blessed to call him Grandpa and Grandpa Great.

Above all, Earl loved and honored his sweetheart, Arlene, with his whole heart. He often taught his children to show their mother the love and respect she deserved. His life was a testament to devotion- devotion to family, faith, hard work, and service.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Humanitarian Fund of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

The funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 22 at 11:00 AM at the Nibley 6th Ward (1584 W 3200 S Nibley, UT 84321). Preceding the funeral, there will be a viewing from 9:30-10:30 AM, and Friday, November 21 from 5:00-7:00 PM.

Memories and condolences may be shared and expressed at www.allenmortuaries.com