Obituary of Mervin Ray Gunderson

Mervin Ray Gunderson was born on April 20, 1931 in Kinistino, SK. to Melvin and Ella (Jewell) Gunderson. Two years later, he was blessed with a little sister, Marlyn. Merv spent his formative school years in Kinistino and after his graduation, he moved to Saskatoon where he attended the University of Saskatchewan in the field of Engineering. During this time, Merv spent a summer in Chilliwack as part of the Canadian Officers Training Corps, as well as a few more summers working in Waskesiu. His U of S graduating class was a special group of friends that he kept in touch with regularly, which included many class reunions that he and Norma loved to attend. Shortly after his graduation in 1953, he began a rewarding 34 year career with the Department of Highways in Yorkton. In 1961, Merv met Norma Elliott and in 1963 they were united in marriage. They acquired their first and only home on Alexandra Avenue where they raised their three children Larry, Leanna and Linda. After Norma’s sudden passing in 2012, Merv continued to live in the family home independently until 2020. It was at this time that Merv was welcomed by the amazing staff of Wallace House in Yorkton’s Anderson Village who provided him with great care and support. He passed away peacefully with all of his family by his side in the early morning of October 1, 2022. He was 91 years of age. Merv was absolutely devoted to his work and his family. In his younger years he enjoyed curling and as his family grew, he enjoyed many camping trips (even if at times, it meant the camper parked in the backyard). He had a great appreciation for nature, canoeing at York Lake, small tasks around the house, reading, crosswords, and enjoying a glass of wine. He loved family vacations whether it was close to home or abroad, and upon early retirement, Clear Lake, Manitoba became a favorite annual tradition. He had a great passion for music and would often get lost in his musical world whether he was playing the organ or listening to some of his favorite classical or jazz. Merv was also a member of the Yorkton Chapter of the Barbershop Singers. He found joy in the simple things, but his heart was complete with the arrival of his two grandchildren, Rylan and Jayde who were so very dear to him. He will be remembered for his quiet and reserved disposition, as well as his gentle and loving nature. He was proud yet modest. A true gentleman. Merv leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life…. son Larry, daughters Leanna and Linda (Gary) Sauser as well as grandchildren Rylan and Jayde Sauser. His sister Marlyn, nephews Rick (Claudine) McLean, Brad (Jennifer) McLean, niece Barb (Mark) Ell and their families, as well as many relatives, friends and dear neighbours. “Life is not a race, take it slower - try to hear all the music before the song is over.” Service Details. Service When: Tuesday, October 11th, 2022 2:00pm Location: Westview United Church Address: 355 Bradbrooke Dr. YORKTON, SK S3N 2K7 Interment Location: Yorkton Memorial Gardens Address: Highway #10 East YORKTON, SK Online Memory & Photo Sharing Event Ongoing Online Event About this event In Loving Memory Of Mervin Gunderson April 20, 1931 - October 1, 2022 Look inside to read what others have shared Family and friends are coming together online to create a special keepsake. Every memory left on the online obituary will be automatically included in this book. View Tribute Book