This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.

Brendan Robert Saunders

Brendan Robert Saunders, 49, of Clinton, passed from this life on April 8. We lost a devoted husband, loving father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin; a loyal friend, neighbor, and dedicated public servant and pastor. Born on April 25, 1973 in New London, he was the son of Dora-Lee (Manning) Saunders and the late Wendell Louis Saunders Sr.

Brendan graduated from Westbrook High School in 1991. He married the love of his life, Mary (Costello) Saunders, in 1998. Having known each other for almost 32 years, they were excited to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary together this August. Brendan received his bachelor of science in pastoral ministry at Clarks Summit University in 2000 and his master of arts in biblical studies at Capital Seminary in 2007. Brendan was devoted to his faith and to helping others become closer to their own faith. He was the founding pastor of Lighthouse Community Church in Westbrook from 2007 to 2017. He also ministered in multiple churches in Pennsylvania, New York, Maryland, and Connecticut, leaving a legacy of illustrating God’s Word in a way that kept people engaged and wanting more to better understand how to live out their faith in a broken world. He also faithfully produced his podcast, FUSION with Brendan Saunders, on a weekly basis leaving behind episodes on topics across the spectrum from music, culture, hope, sports, faith, movies (specifically the Marvel Cinematic Universe), etc. These will be treasured for years to come with his wicked sense of humor, infectious laugh, as well as his wise perspective on everyday life circumstances.

While serving in full-time ministry, Brendan also worked in the hotel industry. With over 13 years of experience in the hospitality business, he excelled as the director of sales and marketing, most recently at the Courtyard by Marriott in Cromwell for the Waterford Hotel Group, receiving recognition and awards for top sales performance. Brendan always saw his job as another opportunity to build relationships with people and to serve God in his daily life. Making a home in Clinton and raising their beloved daughter, Jorden, Brendan was deeply involved in local politics behind the scenes for years. In 2020, however, he stepped out to run for State Senate of the 33rd District, receiving 46% of the votes in the midst of COVID as a first-time candidate, coming up short; Connecticut lost out. Undeterred, Brendan began to serve as the chair of the Clinton Republican Town Committee and provided charismatic leadership and vision to the Republican 33rd District Council. He also served on other town boards, as well as a member of the Board of Directors of the Middlesex Chamber of Commerce, Josh Metell Foundation, Manchester Community College Hospitality Advisory Board, and Board of Corporators of Middlesex Health. Brendan held civic engagement a priority in his life and encouraged others to do the same.

Brendan was an avid fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Yankees, frequently attending games and cheering them on through victory while voicing his frustrations and constructive criticism in defeat. He was a lifelong learner, recently enjoying his participation in the Charter Oak Leadership Program, igniting his passion for history and love of freedom we enjoy in this country yet so often take for granted. He also expressed much of what he was ruminating on at any given time with his regular appearances on the Lee Elci Show (AM 94.9) and was excited about starting his own Saturday show, preparing for it while recovering from surgery. On a personal level, Brendan was a loyal friend to many. He had a laugh that was contagious. He was funny and could make you laugh until you cry. He was able to find humor in the midst of difficulty. Brendan was also serious, and if you needed him, he was there. He was fearless and up for any challenge, yet sensitive and incredibly compassionate. Brendan was honest, a man of full body, mind, and integrity. As Brendan spent time with his friends and family, he always provided his undivided attention to those relationships and will be greatly missed by his many friends. Above all, Brendan found his joy in spending time with friends and family, those he held closest in his heart.

Brendan will be greatly missed by his wife, Mary; his daughter, Jorden; and his mom, Dora-Lee Saunders. He is survived by his brothers, Wendell Louis Saunders Jr.; Paul Saunders (wife Claire), and Andrew Saunders (wife Ashley); brothers-in-law, Mark Dombrofski, Paul Costello (wife Michele), and Tom Costello (significant other Karla Mercedes); and sister-in-law Amy (Costello) Brassard (husband Andrew). He will be remembered by Mary’s parents, Dennis and Cathy Costello, and his nieces and nephews: Elise, Isaiah, Hazel, Adrianna, Sean, Claire, Jonathan, Nicholas, Elyse, and Leah. He has a large extended family. Brendan is predeceased by his dad, Wendell Louis Saunders Sr., and sister-in-law Anne (Costello) Dombrofski.

Calling hours will be held from 2 until 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 29,with remarks and prayers to follow at 6 p.m. at Swan Funeral Home, located at 80 E. Main Street, Clinton. There will be a joyous Celebration of Life by private invitation only Sunday afternoon, April 30. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made in Brendan’s honor to the GoFundMe created for Jorden’s college education.