Eugene "Gene" Gary Gunderson

Eugene “Gene” Gary Gunderson, a 22-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force and a loving husband and father, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, at the age of 83. Born in Cumberland, Wisconsin, Gene served his country with honor during three tours in Southeast Asia, including the Vietnam War, from 1961 to 1983. Gene served as both an enlisted man and an officer in the Air Force, retiring at the rank of Captain. During his service Gene earned thirty commendations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, four Air Force Commendation Medals, and the Presidential Unit Citation.

Gene's life was marked by his commitment to community. Since he was a teenager, Gene was an avid drummer for a number of bands across musical genres, most notably Country Western. He was also a dedicated private pilot, having certifications in single- & multi-engine aircraft as well as amphibian aircraft – this included several years serving as a commercial pilot and as a member and flight instructor for the T-Craft Aero Club in Nampa. Gene was also an accomplished painter working in acrylics and his work has been shown throughout the Caldwell and Marsing area. Additionally, Gene was very involved in the Rotary Club in Nampa and Caldwell, having served over 20 years as a member and as a past president of the Caldwell Club.

Following his military retirement, Gene continued to serve the community through two successful careers. First, as the Associate Director for the Mountain States Tumor Institute (MSTI) in Boise, and then as the Director of the Southwest Health District for the State of Idaho in Caldwell. At MSTI, Gene helped develop the first Breast Cancer Detection Service clinics in the Treasure Valley and the Ronald McDonald House in Boise.

His love for his second wife, Nan, was a source of great joy, and he found a new chapter in his life with her and their home in Caldwell.

Gene is survived by his loving wife Nan Gunderson; his children Kim Gunderson, Dean Gunderson (Pam), and Chris Gunderson (Capri); his grandchildren Aaron, Chance, Luke, Cory, Becks, Curtis, and Conor; and his siblings Karen Bernhardson (Al), Gaylon Jorgenson, Bev Nelson (Doug), and Kathy Zavala (Lalo).

Service of Remembrance: Gene will be buried with full military honors at the Idaho Veterans Cemetery. 10am, Tuesday May 27, 2025.

Memorial Contributions: In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities Idaho in Gene Gunderson's name.