William "Bill" Hanson Saunders, Jr.

William "Bill" Hanson Saunders, Jr. was born on November 23, 1954, in Norfolk, England, to William H. Saunders and Justine Maria Holzapfel. Bill passed away on April 28, 2025, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, leaving behind a legacy filled with dedication, service, and love for his family and community.

Bill graduated from Central High School in 1973, where he was active in ROTC and earned the rank of Eagle Scout in Boy Scouts of America. Shortly after graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving both at home and abroad. During this time, he successfully completed French Commando training in 1977. His distinguished military career spanned several decades and reflected a profound dedication to his country. He retired as a Major from the Wyoming National Guard, where he was known for his leadership, commitment, and the deep respect he garnered throughout the military community. During his service, Bill also earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Wyoming and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the ROTC program there. 

Following his military retirement, Bill continued his service-oriented career with the Center for Environmental Management of Military Lands (C.E.M.M.L.), where he worked for over a decade.

Even in retirement, Bill continued to honor and support the military community. He shared his passion for history and preservation through his work at the Wyoming National Guard Museum. He served on the board of directors for the Fort Laramie Historical Society, contributing his time and expertise to preserving Wyoming’s rich heritage. Bill was also a proud member of the Civil War Preservation Trust, the American Battlefield Trust, Oregon-California Trails Association, and he actively supported wildlife conservation efforts as a donor to the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Ducks Unlimited. His generosity was evident in all aspects of his life.

One of his lasting legacies was spearheading the placement of Oregon Trail markers at Camp Guernsey, Wyoming—an effort that combined his love of history, service, and education for future generations.

Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Jodie Saunders (Lanthier), who stood beside him through life’s journey, supporting and sharing countless memories together. He is also survived by his sister, Shirley McMenus (Saunders), and brothers, Robert Saunders, Troy Saunders, and Steven Saunders, who will carry his spirit in their hearts. His nieces, Olivia Saunders and Jessica Saunders, as well as nephews D.J. McMenus, Justin Saunders and Austin Saunders, remember him as a kind uncle whose presence brought joy to family gatherings.

He is reunited in spirit with his mother, Justine Maria Holzapfel, his father, William H. Saunders, his brother, Dean Saunders, and his nephew, Aaron Saunders, all of whom he loved dearly. 

He was baptized and adopted into the family of Christ at age 13. 

Bill's presence will be profoundly missed, but his legacy of service, education, and love for family will continue to inspire those who knew him. His memory will forever hold a cherished place in the hearts of his family and friends.

A viewing will be 5/2 from 10:00 - 1:00 pm and memorial service is 10:30 am on 5/5 both at Wiederspahn-Radomsky Chapel, followed by military honors at Cheyenne National Cemetery at 2:00 pm.

If you would like to make a donation in honor of Bill Saunders, please consider contributing to the Wyoming National Guard Historical Society.