Russell Eugene Saunders, Sr.

Russell Eugene Saunders Sr. (Kepanikwe) a Shawnee resident passed away on Friday, December 13, 2024 in Shawnee, Oklahoma at the age of 58. Russell was born August 12, 1966 in Shawnee, Oklahoma to Wesley Elray and Rena Darlene Mack Saunders. 

He was a father of 7 children, Stevie Saunders of Shawnee, Nickie Saunders of Prague, Russell Saunders Jr. of Oklahoma City, Darruss Saunders of Shawnee, Brena Saunders of Oklahoma City and Correna Saunders of Davenport. Russell is also survived by his sister Minnie Rochelle Masquas of Shawnee, traditional adopted sisters Lisa Ann Fixico, Jerri Harjo, brother Mike Harjo, several cousins, nephews, nieces, and 13 grandkids. 

He is preceded in death by grandparents Ethel Nenaseka Mack and Arthur Mack, Harry Saunders and Emma Saunders, both parents, one son Albert Ian Saunders, two sisters Deletta Mamie Gibson and Lesley Cheryl Saunders.

In his younger years, he enjoyed pow wow dancing as a fancy dancer. Russell was well known for making everybody laugh and enjoyed the company of everyone. He loved all of his family. Russell was a proud, enrolled member of the Sac and Fox Nation and also of the Otoe-Missouria Tribe of Oklahoma descent. He was most proud of his time working as a maintenance technician for the Sac and Fox Nation.