Ashley Saunders, 62, of Waterford, formerly of Manchester, beloved husband of Maureen Loughrey, passed away on August 16, 2016. He was born on April 8, 1954 in Hartford, CT and had a wonderful childhood in Manchester with his three siblings, Robert, Chris and Karen and his parents, Polly and "Big Dave". Sports, learning and cultural activities enriched his everyday existence. Ashley graduated Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa from UConn and subsequently received a Masters in Social Work from UConn. He went on to work for Child and Family Services of Southeastern CT as a child psychiatric social worker and administrator in New London and Groton for 34 years. His greatest passions were being outside pursuing various sports such as sail boarding, snowshoeing, biking, running, swimming and, his favorite activity, hiking. He, his brothers and his best friend Bill hiked in the Adirondacks, Southern Utah and other locales. He also hiked with his wife in Wyoming, in the Grand Tetons, and throughout New England. He married Maureen whom he knew and loved since he was 20 years old at their favorite park in Waterford, Harkness Park. Ashley looked forward to vacationing with his family and wife every year in Cape Cod, where they enjoyed each others' company and the outdoors. Ashley was an adventurer who was interested in protecting the planet. He lived simply and with integrity, always sensitive to other peoples' needs. He lived courageously, insightfully and with the ability to discern the truth. He was a loving husband, devoted friend and brother. There will be a Memorial Service at the Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 70 Cross Road, Waterford, CT 06385 on Saturday, August 27, at 11 AM. Burial will be private and arranged at the convenience of the family. In Ashley's memory, a list of memorial contributions will be provided at the memorial service.
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