1937~2025
Date of Service: Jun. 20, 2025
ALBION – Our beloved father, brother, grandfather and friend, Donald Gene Gunderson “Gundy”, has received his wings. On February 24, 2025, while working at his residence, he passed away at his home in Albion, Idaho, with fellow friends by his side. He was just shy of his 88th birthday.
Don, or as he was known by everyone who knew him – Gundy, was born on March 2, 1937, to Roland and Fawn Gunderson in Ogden, Utah, and was the eldest of nine children. He joined the military after high school, and served our country in the Vietnam war. He served in both the Army and also the Navy Reserves.
As many know, Don was a dedicated veteran and after serving his country, he joined the American Legion while living in California, and continued that service until he passed. After he and his wife, Patricia, moved to Idaho, he held all positions of leadership at the state level beginning with post commander, district commander, state commander in 1992 - 1993 and then he held the position of national executive committeeman. Don served as a committee member at both the state and national level for the Military Child and Youth program from 1989 through 2008. Anyone who knew him knew he was “American Legion” all the way. He loved each and every one of the members; they were his brothers and sisters. Mom would always joke that she was his mistress and the Legion was his wife. His leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on the organization and those he served alongside.
Don was a pillar of the Albion community as he had resided there for 43 years; he served as Marsh Creek Water Master for at least 25 years, ensuring the town’s needs were met with care and diligence. He retired in March of 2021, so that he could spend time with and care for his wife. He was also an active member of the Albion Fire Department for over 30 years and played a key role in the development of a new fire station, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his neighbors.
Don always enjoyed the outdoors, need it be wandering the mountains checking water, or camping with his family. After his wife passed, he loved to spend time with his daughter, Jody, and her family, cheering her kids on in whatever sport they were doing, whether it was at a swim meet or basketball game, heck, even cross-country and braving the cold for track meets. He loved “date night” with his daughter as they would always go listen to Barton & Bollar when they were playing. His evenings were usually spent watching golf or rodeos with his beloved partner in crime, Miss Bear. Those who know, know.
Above all, Don cherished his family and the time spent with them. He is mourned and survived by his siblings, Debbie Thompson (Lynn); his brothers, Robert Gunderson (Phyllis) and Brett Gunderson (Heidi); daughters, Tracy Gunderson Simmons and Jody Denning (Scott); son, Geoffrey Allen (Donna); 15 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren, with one more due in July.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Patricia; his sisters, Carol, Vicki, Kay and Ellen; his brother, Bruce; his son, Brian; and his great-granddaughter, Paisley.
The family will be honoring Don’s wishes by holding a graveside service with military rites at 1 p.m. Friday, June 20, at Pleasant Hill Cemetery in Albion, located directly behind the Albion Campus, followed by a celebration of his life, which will be held at the Albion City Park immediately following.
It was his wish that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to the National Children and Youth foundation in his name. Both Don and his wife, Patricia, dedicated many years to this cause.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home of Burley.
