Obituary

Joel Gunnar Lee Gunderson
Born September 2, 1951 – Died June 1, 2025

Joel Gunderson, a man with a heart of gold and an irrepressible sense of humor, passed away on June 1, 2025. He was constantly surrounded by the love of his family and left this world having lived a life of generosity, laughter, and service.

Joel’s unwavering Christian faith was the foundation of his life. It shaped his acts and overflowed into the kindness and generosity he showed to all.

Joel was the beloved husband of Loma Gunderson (née McEwen). The two were married on November 11, 1972, in Bellingham, Washington. Their marriage was filled with joy, adventure, deep friendship, and countless shared games of Parcheesi.

They shared a deep love and unshakable devotion to each other and to their faith. They were a pair of strong personalities—different in many ways, their strong personalities were perfectly matched. They challenged each other, trusted each other, and built a life that was exciting, faithful, and full of love. As equals, each bringing fire, devotion, and unwavering loyalty to the life they built together.

Joel served honorably as an IT and records specialist in the United States Army for 20 years. During that time, he and his family completed three tours in Germany, creating lasting memories. After retiring from the military, he was employed by Trident Seafoods, where he was a valued employee known for his dependability, skill and warmth.

Joel was a brilliant mind—highly intelligent, naturally curious, and always two steps ahead of the conversation. A tech whiz, he was also a calculus master and could fix anything.

He had the biggest, goofiest grin and a look that let you know he was probably about to say something hilariously offbeat or surprisingly profound.

He was the proud father of four children: Mary Lancaster (wife Jacki), Corrie Neth (husband Scott), Rachael Gunderson (partner Jess O’Donnell), and David Gunderson. He was also the cherished grandfather of C.J., Alicia, Danielle, Allee, and Daniel.

Joel is also survived by his siblings: brothers Pete (Racelia), Ole, John (Tammy), and Harvey (Cindy); sisters Geriene (Ron), Sigrid Bell, Judy (Don), and Ruth; sister-in-law Karen DeVaney (Tim) and Becky McRorie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Beverly Gunderson, his parents-in-law, Roy and Ethelwyn McEwen, siblings David and Debbie, and brothers-in-law Jerry McRorie, Mike Bell and Dan McCort. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will never forget his kindness and joy.

He lived the teachings of Christ not only in word, but in daily life. His forgiveness and service to others were reflections of the love and grace he found in his Savior.

To know Joel was to be welcomed, teased affectionately, helped without hesitation, and often handed a thoughtful gift — or a pancake. A goofball at heart, he loved silly things: VeggieTales, Ernest movies, ALF, Star Trek, and anything that made others laugh. He had a booming voice, a contagious laugh, and an unforgettable presence — as seen the day he famously leapt out of his seat during Jurassic Park, arms flailing and voice echoing through the packed theater.

Joel loved the outdoors — fishing, camping, road trips, swimming, and gardening. He adored animals, especially walking his dog, Karmi. Athletic and adventurous in his youth, Joel could walk on his hands and was known for upside-down wall push-ups. Music was a big part of his life; he enjoyed singing in choirs and making up goofy songs around the house. Playing the trombone as a young man suited him perfectly. As a child, he visited nursing homes with his mother, who accompanied him on piano while he played hymns for the residents — a memory he carried throughout his life. In the kitchen, he was a creator, known for dishes that were healthy, fresh, spicy, and surprisingly delicious. Pancakes were a special favorite—pumpkin, buttermilk, squash, peanut butter, and more—all made with fresh ingredients from his garden. Pancakery was his specialty, with recipes as unique as the garden that inspired them.

Joel’s love languages were unmistakable: acts of service and gift giving. He showed up, helped out, and gave freely. He forgave quickly and thought of others constantly. He lived with a rare blend of honesty, humor, and a childlike wonder mixed with deep wisdom and unfailing integrity.

Much of Joel’s family rejoices in the hope of Heaven, knowing he is with his Lord and Savior. His life was a testimony to the love of Christ, and his legacy is one of faith, laughter, and service.

Joel’s family invites all who knew him to carry on his legacy: be kind, be silly, help others, make pancakes, sing loudly, and laugh without hesitation.