house resolution no.359

The Speaker, on behalf of the entire membership of the House of Representatives, offered the following resolution:

A resolution of tribute offered as a memorial for Nelson Saunders, former member of the Michigan House of Representatives.

Whereas, It is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of former Representative Nelson Saunders. Mr. Saunders exemplified leadership and selflessness as he loyally served his constituents in the Seventh and Tenth districts, consisting of parts of Wayne County and Detroit; and

Whereas, Mr. Saunders was born and raised in Michigan, which instilled in him a great passion for the betterment of the state. He attended Laurence Institute of Technology and Wayne State University before starting an impressive career serving others. Mr. Saunders was an active member of his community, serving as a member of the First Congressional District Democratic Party Organization; Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.; the Bagley Community Council; the Founders Society of the Detroit Institute of Arts; the American Diabetes Association; and countless other organizations. He was the proud father of three children, Windy, Alexis, and Nathan; and

Whereas, Nelson Saunders was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1982 and served until 1996. During his time, he served on the committees of Education; Insurance; Taxation; Transportation; Economic Development and Energy; Labor; Public Health; and Judiciary and Civil Rights. He also served one term as the Minority Vice Chair of the Committee on Insurance and three terms as the Chair of the Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs. His leadership lead him to be chosen as the Assistant Majority Floor Leader and co-chair of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus. Those who knew Mr. Saunders admired his drive, honesty, and commitment to fighting inequities; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we offer this resolution as tribute for Nelson Saunders, former member of the Michigan House of Representatives; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the family of Nelson Saunders as a sign of our deepest condolences.