Duane Edward Saunders

Duane Edward Saunders was born Sept. 26, 1961, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho. A descendant of Chief Narcisse Isadore, he was born to Moses Isadore and Irene Ignatius. His family included brothers Richard, Blair and sister Delphine.

At around 20 months old, he was adopted by Gene and Dorothy Saunders. He had brother, Larry, and sisters, Joanne, Patti and Jeanne, to welcome into the family.

Gene and Dorothy raised Duane in Sandpoint, Idaho. Duane took pride in participating in events for veterans and loved to help in any way that he was able to. He had a spirited childhood running around with friends, playing ball, riding bikes and generally having fun. Duane also loved spending time with his family camping and especially loved fishing with his dad. Attending different VFW events amongst other trips Duane was able to travel extensively with his parents and grandparents. He attended school in Sandpoint.

He married Peggy and together brought their daughter, Tabitha, and son, Scott, into their lives. He was fond of spending time with his children. He would often find he had extra children to watch over as Tabi and Scott brought friends over and they wouldn’t want to leave. Duane was known to many as “Pops” and he relished the title. Helping people and taking kids into his home was a theme he would carry with him through the rest of his life.

After raising Tabitha and Scott, Tabi and her significant other, Bart, made Duane a grandfather. Kjestine was born and was the apple of his eye. Shortly after Kjestine, Lyssa was born and added even more joy to their lives. Tragically Bart, Tabitha and the two girls were in a horrific auto accident with a drunken driver. Baby Lyssa was the family’s only survivor.

With Lyssa in his care, Duane was determined to help her defy all odds and give her the best life that he could offer her, an endeavor he was extremely successful at. Lyssa was his pride and joy. You could see the love in his eyes and in every action when it came to her. He raised her for 11 amazing years into a beautiful, bright, young lady.

He later took Linda Sue as his bride. He called her his “Beautiful Sunshine” everyday without fail, whether mad or not. He enjoyed showing off his old stomping grounds, spending time in the outdoors and especially travelling.

Throughout his life, Duane always cared for his family and friends. Always willing to help, his love was unconditional. He worked hard and played hard, often at the same time.

Duane was known for his great sense of humor. He could liven any party, making the most monotonous tasks seem fun and exciting. Duane held many jobs and acquired many skills throughout his work experience. He was determined to get the job done and just as determined to have fun while doing it.

After working surveillance at the Kootenai Tribe’s casino, Duane decided to run for Tribal Council. He was elected and began a whole new journey. With his caring ways, willingness to help and unique perspective, he proved to be a valuable asset to the tribe and council and will be sorely missed.

Duane was a collector. A collector of books, music, movies and most of all he was a collector of friends and good times. He loved music. It always made him so happy and he would often be found bopping along to some favorite tune. Duane loved to travel, taking off without plans and following his nose. Steadfast in his stubbornness, he danced to the beat of a different drum. A true non conformist spirit you couldn’t help but admire.

Duane was a helper, a hero with a heart of gold, who would give you the shirt off his back. He was always there for those who needed him. Duane was an old soul, quick to give support, and crack a joke with a mischievous grin. Duane went out of his way to shine his light on the world and those he touched are better for it.

Duane is survived by his wife, Linda Sue; his son, Scott; his (grand)daughter, Lyssa; his brothers, Larry (Sue) Saunders of Spirit Lake, Idaho, Blair Smith of Las Vegas, Nev., Richard Cupilo Isadore, of Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada; his sisters, Delphine Isadore, Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Joanne Saunders of Lacey, Wash., Patti (Rolly) Naccaroto of Spokane, Wash., Jeanne (Rick) Nixon of Federal Way, Wash.; his stepchildren, Gary and Amethyst; and a host of family and friends, all of whom were very dear to him.