David Allan Gunderson

David Allan Gunderson, 72, peacefully entered new life on May 3, 2016 at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona following a short illness. David was born in 1943 in St. Louis, Missouri. He spent most of his childhood in northwest Iowa. After graduation from Estherville High School, Estherville, Iowa, in 1961, he joined the U.S. Air Force and served in France until 1965. After his service to his country, he was employed as a professional draftsman while obtaining a B.S. degree from Mankato State University, Mankato, MN, where he also received an M.S. degree. He was an educator and possessing an entrepreneurial spirit, he pursued a number of varied business interests until his retirement in Scottsdale, Arizona. David married his wife, Beverly (Dunn), on July 12, 1994. David was very talented. He had a wonderful singing voice, he loved to play the guitar, and he spent many hours playing music with his friends. He was an avid golfer and enjoyed boating on Lake Saguaro. He was a fierce competitor when it came to playing games of pool and cribbage. He will be remembered by all who loved him for his sense of humor and joyful spirit. Left to cherish his memory are his daughter Maren (Scott) Steensen, grandchildren: Samuel and Kiersten Steensen, brother Gary (Annesley) Gunderson, nephews: Mark (Denise) Gunderson, Erik Gunderson, sister-in-law Ann-Marie Gunderson, niece Amy Gunderson, grand-nephew Jacob Gunderson, mother-in-law Maria Dunn, sister-in-law Julia Leish, brother-in-law Derek Dunn, nephews: Garett, Brad, and Josh Dunn, as well as countless friends. David was preceded in death by his wife Beverly, his parents, and his brother Stephen. A celebration of life and private burial will be held at a later date. David's family extends their deepest gratitude to the medical staff at the Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center for his loving care and to his "extended family" of friends in Arizona. Memorials may be given to the charity of your choice.