Douglas Wright Saunders

Douglas Wright Saunders, 70, of Vernon, Vermont former longtime resident of Wilmington Vermont, passed away on May 5, 2021. Doug was born on May 17, 1950 in Flushing, New York to Phyllis and David Saunders. He graduated in 1968 from Orchard Park High School, Orchard Park, New York where he was fondly nicknamed Gate. After living at the Richmond Richie and the Dewey Dump in Buffalo, New York, Doug moved to southern Vermont around 1970 which he made his home. He worked as a chef at many local restaurants and later became a self-employed contractor. Doug had a passion for cooking and loved to cook for and spend time with his family and friends. He was a whiz at identifying the photo of the week in the local newspaper and enjoyed winning the free pizza. Doug loved to crack jokes, tell stories and make people laugh. He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan, no matter the score. He played guitar, enjoyed boating, and spending many summers at the family cottage on Silver Lake, New York. He is predeceased by his mother, Phyllis, father, David and twin brother, Donald Saunders. He is survived by his brother, Charles Saunders (Mary) of Buffalo, New York; Donald’s wife, Margaret Saunders of Hamburg, New York; daughters, Samantha Betit (Brad) of Vernon, Vermont; Laural Colbert (Russell) of Whitingham, Vermont; stepsons James Knapp (Amy); Ira John Knapp (Michelle) of Wardsboro, Vermont. He is also survived by his grandchildren Dale Colbert, Karli Knapp, Marissa, Miranda, and Kaleb Betit, and James Knapp. He is survived by a loving niece and nephews; Max, Justin, Mason, Rory, Douglas, Claire, David, Stephen, and John. He also leaves behind many close friends. A service will be held at a later date to celebrate his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab clinic at Brattleboro Memorial Hospital, c/o Covey-Allen & Shea Funeral Home P.O. Box 215 Wilmington, VT 05363