In Memory

David Gunderson

DOB:  9/30/1948
DOD:  4/09/2024

David A. “Dave” Gunderson, 75, beloved father and grandfather, passed away at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls on April 9, 2024. He was born on September 30, 1948, in Eau Claire, WI to Bradford and Verna (Burt) Gunderson. Dave lived most of his life in Eau Claire with his family.

Dave was a proud U.S. Marine and a Vietnam veteran, serving his country honorably. He was employed by the Eau Claire Area School District, first as a school custodian, and later served as a district maintenance team member prior to his retirement in 2003.

Dave married the love of his life, Virginia E. “Ginny” (Wright) Gunderson in 1975. Together they raised their family of four children. Dave and Ginny enjoyed weekend car rides, fishing, and taking their family on trips to the lake for a week each summer in Chetek and Minong. Together they were active in VFW Post 7232, serving in various elected offices, attending many state veterans’ conventions and volunteering at the veterans home in Tomah. Dave learned small engine repair at Chippewa Valley Technical College, where he later taught some of the same courses, and could be found tinkering in his garage many evenings as he served the customers of “Dave’s Small Engine Repair.” After Ginny’s passing in 1999,  Dave enjoyed spending time at his land in Gilmanton with his grandchildren and his sidekick, Missy (his dog). 

Dave was a generous soul who could always be counted on to help others. He loved his extended family dearly and looked forward to the Burt family reunion every year. 

Dave is survived by his children, Kelly (John) Strenski of Wichita Falls, Texas, John Gunderson, Marie Gunderson, and Rebecca (Jeff) Olson, all of Eau Claire. He is also survived by his grandchildren- Mariah (Will) Wheeler, Kyler Staves, Kaden Staves, Emily Strenski, Jake Strenski, Kellen Olson, and Jace Olson, as well as his brother Dan (Nancy) Gunderson, sisters Debby Lee and Dawn (Tim) Buckley, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friend Irene. Dave was preceded in death by his wife, father, mother, mother-in-law and father-in-law, and several brothers-in-law and sisters–in-law.

A visitation will take place at 4 pm until the time of service on Friday, April 19 at Hulke Family Funeral Home. Funeral service will conclude the visitation on Friday (4/19) at 6 pm at the funeral home. Private family committal services with military honors will take place at a later date in the Brunswick Cemetery.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at Chippewa Falls and St. Croix Hospice.

Friends and family may offer condolences online at www.hulkefamilyfh.com. 

Hulke Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 3209 Rudolph Road, Eau Claire, WI 54701 is assisting the family with the arrangements.

 



 
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04/10/24 04:08 PM #1    

Ron Halpern

 

Once again, and now, all too often, we mourn the passing of another of our fellow MHS travelers.

I did not know David and I'm sure I'm the poorer for not having crossed paths with him. Nevertheless, the loss of any and each of our classmates is a loss to us all. And again, it is a reminder of both the brevity and preciousness of each and every life.

 

Rest in peace  dear man

 

 

 


04/10/24 04:27 PM #2    

Jean Behnke (Wisnewski)

So sad to again hear the loss of another classmate. It sounds like David lived a good life he can be proud of. A great big thank for his service to our country. I'm sure there are many precious memories for his family.  God Bless.


04/10/24 04:42 PM #3    

Diane Strand (Vinopal)

It just breaks my heart. We are too young to be dying. Yet I am seeing more of us passing all the time. It appears from David's obituary that he lived a wonderful life. That I am grateful for that. May his legacy live on through his family. My deepest sympathies


04/10/24 06:20 PM #4    

Tom Solberg

I was lucky enough to grow up with Dave. We went to kindergarten through sixth grade at Roosevelt Elementary school went through junior high and our sophomore year before i moved to LaCrosse.  Dave will truly be missed by all of his friends and family!!  


04/11/24 08:57 AM #5    

Terry Mewhorter

I knew Dave growing up on Jeffers Rd and going to Roosevelt school and all the way through Jr High and Memorial.My regards to his friends and family

 


04/11/24 11:12 AM #6    

Jim Mazzone

So sorry to hear this, grew up with Dave and his  family. Many great times, will be missed.,condolenses to his family .. Jim Mazzone 

 

 

 

 


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