Michael "Mike" W. Gaunder

Michael “Mike” W. Gaunder of McLean, Virginia passed away on May 7, 2019 at the age of 68. He was born on May 13, 1950 in Columbus, Ohio to Milton and Catherine (Dearth) Gaunder. Mike is survived by his wife of 25 years, Flora (Suissa); daughter, Melanie (Ryan) Wildermuth; grandson, Hudson Wildermuth; brother, David Gaunder; niece, Miranda (Matthew) Brown; and nephew, Dylan Gaunder. He is preceded in death by his father, Milton Gaunder; mother, Catherine (Dearth) Gaunder; grandparents Milton and Lyda Gaunder and Wayne and Zepha Dearth. He graduated from Johnstown Monroe High School in 1968 then attended Kent State University. After college, Mike began his career as a tax appraiser for Cole-Layer-Trumble in Dayton, Ohio. Throughout his career Mike worked for NCR, Mead, Marvin Poer and KPMG taking him to Indiana, Illinois, New Jersey, Georgia, and eventually Virginia. In 2000, Mike started his own consulting company, Professional Tax Solutions (PTSI) in Falls Church and retired in 2018. He had a passion for golfing and traveling and often took advantage of the beautiful scenery and golf courses while away. Mike was a member of the Westfields Golf Club for 20 years, hosted annual golf trips and traveled to Scotland to golf with some of his closest friends. Mike and Flora traveled together to many places, but Saint-Tropez, France was the one place they most enjoyed. Mike made many charitable donations over the years, especially those benefiting children. Tee off for Tyler, however, was an event that held a very special place in his heart. He was witty, charismatic, lived for the moment and took advantage of all life had to offer. Mike enjoyed fast cars, the newest technology and spending time with his loyal and cherished companion, Bogey, his Golden Retriever. A celebration of life will be forthcoming this summer to honor Mike and his memory. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Mike’s name be made to Capital Caring Hospice, Halquist Memorial Inpatient Center by visiting www.capitalcaring.org.