He was born April 29, 1961 to E. Philip and Carole West Saunders.

Michael graduated from Dansville Central School and proceeded on to Syracuse University where he received his bachelor’s degree in operations management. He had a 35-year career at Saunders Management, where he was most recently president of Essex Properties. He also served as secretary of the Saunders Foundation.

Michael loved living nearby his family on the family farm. Michael was an expert trout fisherman. He loved collectible cars, motorcycles, motocross, snowmobiling, and was an excellent chef.

He is survived by his children Christina Saunders (Brad) Hollrock of Lake Placid and Blake Sawdey of Dansville; his granddaughter Avery Saunders Hollrock; his parents E. Philip and Carole West Saunders of Ossian; his brother Philip M. (Cathy) Saunders of Ossian; his sister Patty Saunders (Mark) Redding of Victor; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and many dear friends.

He was predeceased by his sister Mary Saunders Beiermann.

Services were held April 11 and April 12 at the Kevin W. Dougherty Funeral Home, 21 Big Tree St, Routes 15 and 20A Livonia. Private burial followed in the Ossian Center Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Saunders Foundation, 762 Brooks Ave., Rochester, NY 14619. The funds will be directed toward a special project in Michael’s memory at UR/Noyes Hospital in Dansville, New York.

To send condolences or share a memory, please visit: www.doughertyfuneralhomes.com.