Eugene M. Saunders

Eugene Marvin Saunders, known to all as Gene, 63, passed away on October 31, 2026, at the Aroostook House of Comfort, following a period of declining health.

Born on November 9, 1962, in Fort Benning, Georgia, Gene was the son of the late Carroll Saunders and Mary Saunders Ellis. He was predeceased by his mother; his stepfather and best friend, Troy Ellis; and his siblings, Michael Saunders and Lori Saunders, his mother-in-law, Jeannette LaPointe and father-in-law, Romain LaPointe.

Gene was a graduate of Caribou High School and worked for many years at McCain Foods. In 1987, he married Suzanne LaPointe, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and nearly 40 years of marriage.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne, and his son, Christopher, both of Caribou; his brother, Carroll Saunders Jr., of Stuart, Florida; and his stepmother, Brenda Saunders.

He also leaves behind his treasured granddaughter, Aubree, who was the most precious gift to her “PaPa” and had him at hello. Gene also lovingly embraced Aubree’s half-siblings, Peyton and Logan, as his own grandbabies, never making any distinction between them.

Also left to cherish his memory are his brother-in-law, Richard LaPointe of Winter Haven, Florida; his sisters-in-law, Ann Hull of Fort Fairfield, Frances LaPointe, and Cathy LaPointe, both of Ocala, Florida, Lisa Milliard and her husband, Peter, of Woodland, and Rose Cyr of Sinclair, widow of the late Kenneth. Gene and Rose shared a special relationship filled with love, laughter, and joy, and he thought of her as his best “bud.”

Gene will also be fondly remembered by his many dear friends, including Vicki Loving, Mark Kernan, Kirk Grivois, and Dan Churchill.

Gene was also a proud godfather to Allen, Janelle, and little Avery. He shared an especially close bond with Janelle, his niece, who spent a great deal of time with him and meant the world to him. He was also fond of her husband, Tim O’Bar of Caribou.

Gene’s love for children was unmistakable, and many affectionately called him “PaPa.” Whether they were grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, or simply children lucky enough to know him, he loved them all deeply. Especially Sutton, Avery, Beckett, Finley, Izzy, and NJ.

Gene loved the outdoors, especially riding his side-by-side, and he never stopped cheering for his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. A lifelong Steelers fan, he proudly passed that love on to his son, Chris, winning him over from a childhood Patriots fan. They also shared a love for the Boston Celtics, and those simple loyalties became part of the bond they carried together. More than teams or games, Gene’s greatest hope was for Chris to know how deeply he was loved and to carry that love forward in building a good life. He will be remembered for his deep love of family, his loyal friendship, and the special connections he shared with so many.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Arrangements are by Mockler Funeral Home, Caribou. Online condolences may be shared at www.mocklerfuneralhome.com.