Robert Saunders

Robert Ward Saunders, longtime Minot businessman, passed away on August 12, 2020 in SaltLake City, Utah. Bob was born March 14, 1926 to Ward and Catherine (Schumaker) Saunders inMinot. He attended Minot schools, graduating from St. Leo’s High School. He then graduatedfrom NDSU receiving a degree in Pharmacy. He also proudly served in the Navy Air Corps.Bob’s father owned and operated Ward Drug from 1916 until Bob assumed ownership in 1950. He operated Ward Drug until 1986 when it merged with Northwest Pharmacy.

Bob married Lois Pringle on August 24, 1948 and together they raised 6 children; Jim (MartyWest Fargo, ND, John (Vivienne) Tomball, TX, Barbara (Jim Skarperud) Buxton, ND, Tom (Nena)Layton, UT, Steven (deceased), and Mark, Helena, MT. Lois passed away in February, 1999.Bob loved the outdoors, passing along his passion to his children and grandchildren. He enjoyed camping, hunting, fishing, backpacking, mountain climbing, canoeing, scuba diving,golfing and skiing. His love for dogs and horses was unbridled. He actively participated in Minot Trail Riders and was a chairman of the Badlands 100 Mile Ride. He served as Chairman of the Building Committee of the All Seasons Arena and played hockey for the Minot Barons. He served many years on the National Ski Patrol, a lifetime member of the North Dakota Pharmacists Association and together he and Lois hosted many memorable class reunions at their country home.

Bob married Ione Weideman in May 2010 until they were divorced in 2014. Since then he has spent his winters in Salt Lake City and warmer weather at his beloved Minot home. After a stroke, Bob resided at the SLC VA Nursing Home where he received wonderful care and was assisted to enjoy fishing, adaptive cycling and skiing. He last skied in February 2020! Besides his children and spouses, Bob will be missed by 11 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren, the youngest born only hours before his passing. He was preceded in death byhis wife of over 50 years, parents, sister (Phoebe Mahoney), son Steven and grandsons Mike and Dane. RIP Dad, Grandpa and Great Papa.

Due to current health concerns, services will be held in Minot during the spring of 2021.