David Julian Saunders

David “Julian” Saunders, 82, died on December 1, 2006 at the Retama Manor Nursing Center, Laredo, TX. He was born January 16, 1924 in Palestine, IL, the son of Dave and Flossie Saunders. He graduated from high school in Mattoon, IL, attended 2 years at the University of Illinois, Champaign, IL before entering the U. S. Army during WWII. He served in the South Pacific. Julian came close to being injured twice; a bullet through the top of his steel helmet and later a bullet hit his canteen which was on his back, the cool water had become warm and when the warm water ran down his back he thought he had been hit. He also served in the Illinois National Guard in California during the Korean War. He was past President of the American Business Club, Champaign, past District Chairman of the Boy Scouts of America, Champaign, owned his own insurance business for 30 years, receiving several awards for his insurance accomplishments and abilities, past President of AARP of Zapata and Life Member of the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.He married Patricia Walters on February 9, 1947 and she survives. He is also survived by 4 children and their spouses, Julianne (Bob) Davis, Chino Hills, CA, David Michael (Pat) Saunders, Indianapolis, IN, Robert Glen (Sharon) Saunders, Denver, CO, and Betsy Jane (Bernie) Baczkowski, Jacksonville, FL; 3 grandchildren; and 1 great grandchild. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, May 29, 2007 at the Palestine Cemetery with Rev. Tom Akers officiating. The Goodwine Funeral Home, Palestine is in charge of arrangements.