Vernon Gunderson

GUNDERSON
Vernon A.
Age 88. Passed away peacefully on Christmas Eve. He was surrounded by family and leaves to join his wife of 57 years Geri in Heaven. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, Albin and Ellen, and sisters Hazel Wallace and Eleanor Gunderson. He is survived by children Susan (Daniel Raether), Michael and Tom; grandchildren Amelia, Henry and Eleanor Raether and Austin Gunderson; niece and nephews Pat Ruble (Steve), Richard (Linda) Wallace, Robert (Glenda) Wallace; and great nieces and nephews. A St. Paul native, he was a graduate of Monroe High School, proudly served the US Army in WWII, then received a Business degree from the University of Minnesota. He joined Donaldson Company Inc. as Director of Personnel and enjoyed a +30 year career with the company as it grew from a single plant to a world-wide corporation with 10 US and 12 oversees operations. He led all personnel operations and retired from the company as Corporate Vice President and Assistant to the President. He then launched a successful second career with business partner Earl Faulkner as the first franchisees of Cost Cutter hair care systems, ultimately attaining 13 salons in central Wisconsin. He was an active and successful personal investor in financial, real estate and small business ventures. He loved his family and was active in his children's activities, sports and relaxing at the Amery, WI lake cabin. He was a kind man, a role model, a loving parent and a man of faith. He and Geri had a passion for travel and gathered rich memories from around the globe. After Geri's death 3 years ago he moved to Boutwells Landing. During this time he formed a special bond with Kay, whose presence and support was much appreciated. His final year was spent at Johanna Shores Memory Care center where he received excellent care. Thanks to their team and especially Yolanda for her loving care and support. Services will be held Monday, Dec 29, 2014 at 11AM at BRADSHAW CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTER, 2800 Curve Crest Blvd. (NW corner of Hwy 36 & Co Rd 5), Stillwater with visitation one hour prior to the service. Interment Union Cemetery.