Larson-Nelson Funeral Home provided the following news release:

Richard Alan Saunders, age 61 of Sandwich, IL passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at his home. He was born on March 14, 1951 in Sycamore, IL the son of Mark and Phyllis (Brown) Saunders.

Mr. Saunders was a former member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Genoa, IL. Richard enjoyed several hobbies, including traveling, photography, woodworking and was also an avid NASCAR fan. Richard was a loving father, grandfather, brother and uncle who will be deeply missed by his family and friends.

He is survived by his daughters, Heather (Rick) Wilkinson of Somonauk, IL and Brandi (Shane) McAuley of Long Beach, CA; his grandchildren, Zackery and Destiny York of Somonauk, IL; his sister, Nayna (Don) Peterson of Genoa, IL; one niece, one nephew and his furry friend, Oliver the cat.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mark and Phyllis Saunders and a son in infancy.

A Memorial Funeral Service for Mr. Saunders will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 19, 2012 at the Faith United Methodist Church, 325 S. Stott Street in Genoa, IL with Pastor Daniel Diss, officiating. Interment will follow in the Genoa Cemetery in Genoa, IL.

A Memorial Fund in Richard’s name will be established by his family.

Friends may visit from 4:00 until 7:00 PM on Friday, May 18, 2012 at the Larson-Nelson Funeral Home, 410 East Countryside Parkway in Yorkville, IL.

Arrangements by Nelson Funeral Homes & Crematory, www.NelsonFuneralHomes.com or (630) 553-7611.