Beverly Faith (Van Burkalow) Saunders, 88, of Keene, NH and formerly of Freehold, NJ died peacefully on Friday, January 13, 2017 in the comfort of her home with the love of family near.
Beverly was born the daughter of the late Emily (Davies) and Caleb Van Burkalow on April 22, 1928 in Philadelphia, PA. After graduating from Germantown High School in 1946, she attended Dobbins Vocational School, specializing in commercial art. She was one of the first women to work as a commercial artist in the display business in the 1940s. She later went on with her education and received an Associates in Art Degree in 1988 from Brookdale Community College in Lincroft, N.J.
She met her husband Harold K. Saunders in 1951 at Oquaga Lake, NY and they exchanged vows on May 24, 1952 in Philadelphia, PA. They lived in Massapequa, NY, Westfield, NJ and Colts Neck, NJ and enjoyed 59 years of marriage before Harold passed away in 2011.
Beverly was actively involved with art throughout her life, sharing her talent with her family, friends, and various craft groups. She spent time working on posters and set designs at theatres, including the Paper Mill Playhouse. Beverly loved color and was always creating something, from Halloween costumes to paper-mch sculptures. Her hand-made Christmas cards were legendary. She was prolific at writing poetry, and she enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing cards, and socializing with her friends. She engaged in scout leading and numerous other volunteer activities, and had a fondness for animals. Beverly also had a passion for travel – visiting Kenya, Morocco, and many places in Europe and the United States.
Mrs. Saunders is survived by her children; Carol D. Saunders and her life partner, Amy Bodwell of Marlborough, NH, Leslie F. Saunders of Philadelphia, PA, and Stephen W. Saunders and his wife Sharon of Princeton, IL. Grandchildren; Kyle J. Saunders of DeKalb, IL, and Kenneth A. Saunders and his wife Alicia of Villa Park, IL. In addition she leaves extended family and many friends. Beverly was pre-deceased by her sister Audrey Keast.
A celebration of life will be held on April 22, 2017 at the Colts Neck Reformed Church, 139 County Rd 537, PO Box 57, Colts Neck, NJ 07722. The memorial service begins at 11 am, followed by burial at the church cemetery, and a small repast also at the church. Donations can be made in memory of Beverly F. Saunders to the Colts Neck Reformed Church. WWW.cheshirefamilyfh.com.
