Obituary of Mervin Ray Gunderson

<p style="text-align:justify">Mervin Ray Gunderson was born on April 20, 1931 in Kinistino, SK. to Melvin and Ella (Jewell) Gunderson.&nbsp; Two years later, he was blessed with a little sister, Marlyn.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify">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.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; 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.</p><p style="text-align:justify">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.&nbsp; They acquired their first and only home on Alexandra Avenue where they raised their three children Larry, Leanna and Linda. After Norma&rsquo;s sudden passing in 2012, Merv continued to live in the family home independently until 2020.&nbsp; It was at this time that Merv was welcomed by the amazing staff of Wallace House in Yorkton&rsquo;s Anderson Village who provided him with great care and support.&nbsp; He passed away peacefully with all of his family by his side in the early morning of October 1, 2022.&nbsp; He was 91 years of age.</p><p style="text-align:justify">Merv was absolutely devoted to his work and his family.&nbsp; 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).&nbsp; He had a great appreciation for nature, canoeing at York Lake, small tasks around the house, reading, crosswords, and enjoying a glass of wine.&nbsp; He loved family vacations whether it was close to home or abroad, and upon early retirement, Clear Lake, Manitoba became a favorite annual tradition.&nbsp; 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.&nbsp; Merv was also a member of the Yorkton Chapter of the Barbershop Singers.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify">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.&nbsp; He will be remembered for his quiet and reserved disposition, as well as his gentle and loving nature.&nbsp; He was proud yet modest.&nbsp; A true gentleman.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:justify">Merv leaves to cherish his memory and celebrate his life&hellip;. son Larry, daughters Leanna and Linda (Gary) Sauser as well as grandchildren Rylan and Jayde Sauser.&nbsp; His sister Marlyn, nephews Rick (Claudine) McLean, Brad (Jennifer) McLean, niece Barb (Mark) Ell and their families, as well as many relatives, friends&nbsp;and dear neighbours.</p><p style="text-align:justify">&ldquo;Life is not a race, take it slower - try to hear all the music before the song is over.&rdquo;</p>