Charles E. `Chuck` Gunderson
Charles E. `Chuck` Gunderson , Age 92
Charles Elwood Gunderson, age 92, finished his race on earth and entered his eternal rest in heaven on Sunday, January 7, 2024.
Charles was born on March 20, 1931 to loving parents, Alice and Elmer Gunderson, and was raised on a small farm an equal distance from Enderlin and Lisbon, North Dakota. The third of seven children, Charles was brought up during the trying times of the Dust Bowl and Great Depression, forging in him to a conserving nature, persevering character and determined work ethic. He was very proud of his Gunderson family, his North Dakota background, and his schooling at Lisbon High School, where he started on the Broncos 1949 state championship basketball team.
After high school, Charles pursued a livelihood in masonry construction. That pursuit was postponed in order to serve his country for two years in the US Army during the Korean War. Upon completion of his military service, Charles finished his bricklaying apprenticeship and used his GI Bill benefits to secure a degree in math education from Concordia College in Morehead, Minnesota.
Charles took on brief teaching assignments in Sisseton, South Dakota and Marshalltown, Iowa, and earned a master’s degree from Northern Iowa University in Cedar Falls, Iowa, before settling down in Baraboo, Wisconsin in 1963.
“Chuck’s” dating patience paid off when he met fellow Baraboo High School teacher Ruth Ward in 1966. They married during Christmas break, on December 20, 1967, and eventually raised three children together. Ruth was truly a perfect complement for Chuck, highlighting his many strong qualities and making him a better man in many ways. Together, they created a home that was filled with love and marked by stability.
Chuck was employed in the Baraboo school district for 36 years as a high school math teacher, retiring in 1999 at the age of 68. “Mr. Gunderson” was a well-known and widely liked teacher, remembered for his math teams, funny sayings, and light-hearted teasing. He was always glad to run by a former student in public, hear about their lives, and return home to browse old yearbooks and reminisce about years gone by.
Chuck also worked full-time every summer as a union bricklayer until retiring in 1997 at the age of 66. He loved a full day of physical work, seeing the fruit of his labors, and providing for his family. Chuck also used this vocation to teach his boys to work and continued taking local side jobs into his early 80s.
Among Chuck’s most notable hobbies was long distance running. He prided himself in being in good shape and looking younger than his age. He pushed himself, running marathons into his early 50s, eventually running one in under 7 minutes per mile. He logged his runs and ran over 2,000 road miles, in a year, at age 68.
In retirement, Chuck became a fixture at the House of Wellness Fitness Center. He also led a vibrant Bible study for retired men at Walnut Hill Bible Church. He kept track of friends and regularly wrote cards of encouragement. He oversaw a large garden and meticulously managed his lawn. Visiting with grandchildren and hearing about their activities and accomplishments was among his greatest delights.
Chuck lived at home until his final days due to the beautiful efforts of a loving wife. He now resides in the presence of God. Chuck was blessed to be nurtured in the foundations of the Christian faith as a child. He later understood his personal need to find peace with God through faith in Jesus. His walk with the Lord matured over time and became a determined pursuit in his faithful routines for the final many decades of his life.
He will be missed.
Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, two siblings, Allen & Joyce, and many friends. He is survived by his wife, Ruth (Ward) Gunderson, children, Brad (Jessica) Gunderson, Jeanne (Axel) McPherson, and Dan (Vonny) Gunderson, grandchildren Ryan Gunderson, Anna (Miguel) Rios, Grace Gunderson, John Gunderson, Ellie McPherson, Clara Gunderson, Brent McPherson, Luke McPherson, & Cale McPherson.
A Funeral Service will be held on Friday, January 12, 2024 at 11 am at Walnut Hill Bible Church with Pastor Dan Gunderson officiating. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 am until the time of service. Burial will follow at Walnut Hill Cemetery. The Redlin-Ertz Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Condolences
Jeanie Madalon January 09, 2024
Student Baraboo , Wisconsin
I’m so sorry to learn of Mr. Gunderson’s passing. He was my Math III teacher and a good one at that! I enjoyed his class very much. His gentle kindness will long be remembered. Godspeed Mr. Gunderson.
Jenise Bracey January 09, 2024
Friend Dillon , South Carolina
So sorry for the loss of a wonderful Christian man. The obituary is beautifully written.
Dale L. Emery January 09, 2024
Friend Reedsburg , Wisconsin
My sympathy to wife Ruth, Pastor Dan, and all of Charles family. I was glad to have known him while attending Walnut Hill Bible Church. Such a wonderful life story of a life well lived.
Mary Klingenmeyer January 09, 2024
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
Oh the great memories and stories. Bowled with my Dad, masonry and union member with Darrell and great friend to me. Keeping Ruth, and everyone, in my heart and prayers ðŸ™â¤ï¸
Jacki Crawford January 09, 2024
Student Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear. He was my math teacher and all around fun guy. Sympathy to Ruth and family.
Catherine Hammer January 09, 2024
Student at Baraboo High School Fenton , Michigan
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Gunderson's passing. I have fond memories of his math classes and enjoyed reading about his amazing life. Heartfelt condolences to the family. He had a significant impact on so many lives.
Steve Lien January 09, 2024
Education colleague/friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
As a former Concordia Cobber, fellow Baraboo School District educator and regular workout partner at the House of Wellness I will miss the daily interactions, sports discussions and stories from his beloved North Dakota. Rest in peace Chuck…
Betty January 09, 2024
Former church member Baraboo , Wisconsin
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. Prayers 🙠for the family.
Kathy Allen January 09, 2024
colleague Baraboo , Wisconsin
Charlie was such a well respected teacher at the high school. I'm sure there are many stories being told by former students as they hear of his passing. I always admired his determination to continue running as long as he could. I bet he ran straight up to heaven!! My thoughts and prayers go out to Ruth and the family.
David Taylor January 09, 2024
Admirer Baraboo
A wonderfully written obituary for a truly decent man. May God bless his family.
Tom Barnhart January 09, 2024
Student of Mr Gunderson Homosassa , Florida
Sorry to hear of Mr Gunderson’s passing. I was a student of his at Baraboo and had a strong influence on my decision to major in Math at the University of Wisconsin. I went on to have a successful career at IBM. I wish I had taken the opportunity to thank him personally.
Thomas Ritzenthaler January 09, 2024
Student & friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry to hear this. A great teacher and friend. Got to know Charlie much better as a member of the House of Wellness. What a great man, wonderful sense of humor.. He will be missed but not forgotten. Our condolences to this wonderful family. Tom & Crystal Ritzenthaler
Anne Hutchens January 09, 2024
Grateful friend. Baraboo , Wisconsin
Many good memories… Yes, he is missed.
Coty Bare January 10, 2024
Friend, student and Sister in Christ North Freedom , Wisconsin
So many happy memories. No more hugs for now, but I'll get you again. We will see how well you duck me in heaven. I love my Gundersons. All of you.
Beth Goethel January 10, 2024
Former student Baraboo , Wisconsin
A Baraboo icon! Always gave me a hard time for being late to his class but always with a smile:-) He is one of the many teachers who had a profound influence on so many. May he rest in peace. Our condolences to his family. Pete and Beth Goethel
David Angell January 10, 2024
Student class of 65 Oshkosh , Wisconsin
Mr. Ginderson was fresh out of grad school when I was privileged to be in has Math III class. He was really "tough." He taught me the value of hard work and the analytical thought process which served me well as I spent 17 in college to achieve my goal. So excited to read his beautiful obituary. He and Ruth lived a beautiful life. Thanks Chuck for tolerating me and making me the best I could be. My prayers are with you and your family.
Carole Ecker January 10, 2024
Former neighbor Black Earth , Wisconsin
Chuck (and Ruth) were such wonderful neighbors. We never missed a Christmas card exchange, except this year and now we know why. I’m so sorry for his passing. We were very fond of him.
Carol Horne January 10, 2024
Former Student Harpers Ferry , West Virginia
I am so very sad to hear of Mr. Gundersons passing. He was one of my favorite teachers and I was fortunate to have him for 2 math classes.
Marcia Peterson-Santaga January 10, 2024
Former Student Waterford , Wisconsin
Charlie was my favorite teacher. I loved his math class, laughed my head off, and loved seeing him and his kids running around at track meets. As a researcher I utilized a lot of statistics and often thought about how inspirational, fun and quirky (in a lovable way) he was. Rest in peace Charlie. Ii appreciate everything about you.
Peter Finger January 10, 2024
Friend Elgin , Illinois
So sorry to hear. Chuck was a great friend/mentor/fellow church member/ and running buddy. I will always remember the runs I shared with Chuck and seeing him run all over the Baraboo area. He was a great example to me of what a Godly hard working family man should be. I always enjoyed seeing him at church when I lived in Baraboo, around town and on runs. I will miss him.
Nancy Meiller January 10, 2024
Colleague Baraboo , Wisconsin
My condolences to Charlie’s family. He made an impact on the many students who were fortunate to have had him as a teacher. May the many wonderful memories you shared help to bring you peace.
Sharon January 10, 2024
Former student and church member CHEEKTOWAGA , New York
My deepest condolences to Ruth and his family. Mr. Gunderson was such a wonderful math teacher and friend. I had him for Math IV my senior year. If not for him, I never would have passed Calculus. He will be very missed.
Bob Roloff January 10, 2024
;friend and coleague Reedsburg , Wisconsin
Lou Ann and I enjoyed working with Chuck for many years at Baraboo High School. Well done Mr. Gunderson.
Sue Losch Skidmore January 10, 2024
Former BHS student Port Haywood , Virginia
Mr. Gunderson was one of my favorite teachers. I loved his wit and style of teaching. He was also a steady presence at First Baptist Church. My condolences to Mrs. Gunderson and the rest of the family.
Nicki Edwards January 10, 2024
Former Student Waterloo , Wisconsin
My deepest sympathy to the family. Mr. Gunderson held a special place in my education and in my heart - enough that I once chose a small school halfway across the country for my children because his daughter taught there. He was a huge advocate for his students and was always there to keep me challenged and loving math. I am very thankful for the time and energy he gave to me to help me become who I am today.
Herlinda Navarro January 10, 2024
Friend Baraboo , Wisconsin
So sorry for your loss Dan ðŸ™ðŸ½
Bonnie Wick January 10, 2024
Friend Manteno , Illinois
Chuck has left a long term legacy of love, faith and a life well lived to glorify his Lord. Sorry for your loss, happy for his gain. Prayers for you all.
David Greenhalgh January 10, 2024
Former student Tunbridge Wells, UK
Mr Gunderson, I was in your first Junior year math class at BHS and had the good fortune to continue with you for the next year as well. I still well remember your intensity, and good humor, in helping us as newcomers explore the increasingly fascinating world of higher mathematics. As I read all the words above mine here, I also realise what a wonderful life you created in many other realms as well. Thank you, Mr Gunderson, for the contributions you made to my life, and indeed, to many others, too.
SUSAN ANDERSON January 10, 2024
Husbands cousin Crookston , Minnesota
Sincere sympathy for Chuck's family and friends. Always enjoyed visits with Chuck. We will be there in spirit. Love to Ruth and family.
Carole Ecker January 11, 2024
Former neighbor Black Earth , Wisconsin
Chuck (and Ruth) were such wonderful neighbors. We never missed a Christmas card exchange, except this year and now we know why. I’m so sorry for his passing. We were very fond of him.
Keri Olson January 10, 2024
Community Member & BHS Graduate Baraboo , Wisconsin
Greetings -- My heartfelt condolences go out to you for your loss. Chuck was a wonderful man and a phenomenal, well-regarded educator. While I didn't have the opportunity to personally have him as a teacher, I recall how popular he was with his students. I got to know him in my adulthood in our community. I always enjoyed our conversations, and I admired how he lived his life, including taking such wonderful care of himself through his marathon running, etc. Please accept my deepest sympathies. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Keri (Naidl) Olson
Terry Baxter January 10, 2024
Former Student Baraboo , Wisconsin
I too had Mr. Gunderson in accelerated math class at BHS. What a great teacher and person. He was a local icon running the hills and dales of the greater Baraboo area. Folks like him don't come around too often. My prayers go out to his family.
Buddy & Karen Head January 11, 2024
Friend Denton , Texas
Dan, So saddened to hear of your father's passing. His love for his family was always so evident as well as for Christ and His church. May your family heal quickly and find comfort knowing your Dad is in the presence of the King. Yours Truly, Buddy, Karen, Adelyn, Josiah, & Haylee.
Randy Reinfeldt January 11, 2024
Friend Las Vegas , Nevada
Im truly sorry to hear of Mr Gundersons passing. He was my favorite teacher of All-Time at Baraboo High. I had him for teacher my entire HS career and was often the butt of his jokes and actually enjoyed joking around with him. I will cherish his memories and aend my prayers and condolences to his loving family. RIP Charley until we meet again.
Melanie Gumz January 11, 2024
Former student/BHS class of 1981 Canton , Michigan
Sending condolences to the Gunderson family. Mr. Gunderson impacted so many students’ lives, in such a positive way, he made the world a better place. I was blessed to have him for Math III & Math IV, and I echo what others have said: he was a gifted instructor, and a phenomenal role model and human being. He will be missed, but never forgotten.
Mary (Schluter) Friesen January 11, 2024
Former Student Baraboo Baraboo , Wisconsin
Mr. Gunderson and Miss Ward were wonderful teachers at Baraboo. It was so heartwarming to see them get married and start their own family. I had Mr. Gunderson for both Math III and Math IV. He knew how to lay out the information so that a bell would go off in my head ... of course, how logical! Mr. Gunderson was certainly one of the best and teachers I ever had. My condolences to the family. He was a treasure.
DAVID BAUMAN January 12, 2024
friend BARABOO , Wisconsin
On behalf of the Living Hope Church family praying the Lord's comfort for your family. Grateful to have known your dad. God bless your hearts. PSALM 23
Julie Dudney January 12, 2024
Uncle WELDON , Iowa
Uncle Chick was well loved. He will truly be missed. My sincere sympathy to Aunt Ruth and cousins Brad, Jeanne and Dan. Love you
Anne Hutchens January 14, 2024
Grateful friend. Baraboo , Wisconsin
Many good memories… Yes, he is missed.