David Saunders, 84, beloved Husband and Father passed away September 6, 2017. David was born in Marion, IN to Donald and Virginia Saunders March 28 1933. At the age of 7, his parents moved to Albuquerque, NM to pursue their love of art of the Southwest. He attended Highland High School during its first year of opening and is known for creating the Hornet Mascot. He also achieved the highest level of being an Eagle Scout. Upon graduation he entered the Army, where he proudly served.

David was best known for his portrayal of the Red Ryder Cowboy, he appeared in numerous movies and TV shows during his career as well as live stage shows. He also toured for Daisy Air Rifle portraying the Red Ryder Character showing the Red Ryder BB gun. Locally, he was affectionately known as New Mexico's Cowboy. David also contributed his time and image to countless charities.

He is survived by his wife, Florence; sons James (Rebecca), John (Lina) and grandchildren Arthur J. (Araceli), Jonathan Scherer, Kathryn Berg, Jennifer Gabaldon, Kevin Dougherty. He is also survived by five great- grandchildren, his sister Susie Polsander, and sister-in-law, Joyce Rayburn.. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Virginia Fisk; granddaughter, Carolyn Scherer; brother-in-law, Arthur Rice; and his beloved W.N. Arabian horse, Lovenights.

A visitation will be held on Monday, September 11, 2017 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at FRENCH – Wyoming; 7121 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque. Funeral services will be held Tuesday September 12, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. at The Albuquerque Revival Church; 124 Texas St. NE, Albuquerque, NM.  Interment will be private.

Red Ryder's Cowboy Code

Take responsibility for your actions; don't blame others for the consequences of what you choose to do. Always exercise self-control.

Treat others as you want to be treated, fairly and equally. Never look down on anyone.

Respect yourself first. Then you will respect others and what is theirs, to include their outlook of life.

Be happy, joyful, and live your life the very best you know how. When you work or are given chores, do all in an excellent way.

Be a moral leader. Set an example for others to follow, to include always presenting a good appearance.

Be trustworthy, truthful, a keeper of your word, honest even when you think no one is looking.

Choose your friends carefully. Stay away from those who are looking for trouble.

Show concern for the other fellow. Be the champion of the underdog, the oppressed, the disadvantaged. Help someone, someway, every day.

Stand up for what you know is right. Don't follow the crowd just because everyone else is doing it.

Remember-what you do to others comes back to you-be it good or bad.

- Dave Saunders