David Gunderson
David Philip Gunderson was born on April 22, 1932, in Stoughton WI, to Henry and Karen Gunderson.
He passed away on July 3, 2026, at his home in Land O' Lakes, surrounded by his loving family and went to be with his Lord and Savior.
David graduated from the Eagle River Union High School in 1950. He served in the Navy from 1952-1956. On December 22, 1956, he was married Dorothy Syftestad and they moved to Golden Colorado on Lookout Mountain where they stayed for 47 years. They enjoyed skiing, hiking and raising and racing sled dogs. David was employed at Gates Rubber company for 33 years.
In 1976, they built their own cabin on Marion Lake in Watersmeet, MI, where they made lifelong memories with family and friends for 50 years.
When Dorothy passed in 2003, David moved back to his hometown of Land O' Lakes. There he met Marcia Schmidt and they were married on July 31, 2004. David served as president of the food pantry for 6 years. He was involved in the Land O' Lakes museum where donated his jumping skis, boots and Gateway cap. His story is still on display there. He learned to ski at Mosquito Hill and learned to jump at the Gateway Ski Jump.
David is described by many of his friends and family as one of the finest gentlemen they ever knew.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Karen Gunderson; sister, Sylvia Bailey: and first wife, Dorothy.
He is survived by his wife, Marcia Gunderson; beloved step son, Brett (Kris) Schmidt; dearly loved grandchildren Greg (Harley) Schmidt, Carley (Ben) Shroyer, and great-grandchild, Eleanor Grace Schmidt; and many nieces and nephews.
David will be laid to rest at Oak Hill Cemetery in Land O' Lakes.
Donations in his name may be made to the Hope Lutheran Church, 1764 US-45, Watersmeet, MI, 49969, include a note for donation to the ALEAP scholarship program.
Funeral services provided by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home.
Arrangements by Gaffney-Busha Funeral Home, Eagle River. Online condolences may be expressed at gaffney-busha.com
