John Gunderson

John was born April 3, 1946 to Oscar and Ruth (Stewart) Gunderson in Manitowoc, WI.

He graduated from Lincoln High School in Manitowoc, Class of 1965. Following graduation, he joined the United States Army and was proud of his service in Vietnam and Germany.

On November 7, 1970 John married the love of his life, Kathy Karlson.

Family was extremely important to John, as he loved spending time with his three children. He was always present at anything his kids were involved in, especially sports and Color Guard. John was known as Papa to his grandchildren who were the highlight of his life. He was with the city transit from 1972 to 2003. He also worked for the Police Auxiliary until it was disbanded.

In addition to his wife, Kathy, John is survived by his children, Eric Gunderson of Laytonville, CA, Jaime (Paul Heaney) Gunderson of Sheboygan Falls, Sandy (Brandon) Stecker of Plymouth; grandchildren, Bryce and John Reilly Gunderson, Katelyn Semsch, Carson Stecker; a sister, Louise Sansone of Johnsburg, IL; nephews, Brad, Aaron and Nathan Sansone, and Michael and Andrew Gartman; sisters-in-law, Alice Ernst and Edith Gartman; as well as numerous family and friends.

John was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers-in-law, George Ernst and Leonard Gartman and many aunts and uncles.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in John's name.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, June 5, 2013 at 11:00 am at Ballhorn Chapels. Rev. Frederick K. Jabs, Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church, Town of Wilson, will officiate. A time of visitation and support will be held at Ballhorn Chapels, Wednesday, June 5, 2013 from 9:30 am until the time of service. Additional time for visitation and support will be held at Ballhorn Chapels, Tuesday, June 4, 2013 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

The family of John would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Aurora Sheboygan Memorial Medical Center, particularly his "angels in white" on 2K, and Dr. Kumar, Dr. Hancock and Dr. Brooks.

John will always be remembered for his sense of humor and devotion to his family. He was loved and will be missed by many.