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HOLLADAY — An elderly man missing since Friday morning was found dead Sunday evening, officials report.
The body of Leon Hy Saunders, 79, was found in an area not too far from his home, according to Unified Police Sgt. Melody Gray. Police do not suspect foul play was involved.
Saunders was last seen Friday leaving his home near 2700 East and 4600 South in Millcreek in the early morning. He had recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, officials said.
Unified police and volunteers conducted search parties for two days before finding Saunders Sunday evening.
The Saunders family issued the following statement Sunday:
“We have the deepest gratitude for the incredible support you’ve shown Hy and our family. Hy was an incredibly kind and generous man who left an indelible impact on those he interacted with in every capacity. It is clear to us from the outpouring of love and this incredible search effort, that he is revered by those who knew him. The compassion showed by those who did not know him reflects the love and strong spirit of this community. Thanks to the many hundreds of volunteers, and united efforts of law enforcement, search and rescue and all others who responded. We are forever grateful to you. The family respectfully asks for privacy at this time.”
