Obituary of Bernard Gunderson

Bernard Perry Gunderson, late of Big River, passed away December 28th, 2008 at the age of 54 years. Bernard will be lovingly remembered by his wife Mary Ellen of Big River, his son Lance of Saskatoon, his daughter Crystal (Arnold) of Big River, his grandchildren Tristen, Selina, Mallory and Gracie, and his brothers and sisters; Earl and Cec of Big River, Grace and Bud Forbes of Big River, Gordon and Sherry of Big River, Doug and Debbie of Big River, Geraldine and Stan Millikin of Big River, Norman and Jenny of Meadow Lake, Leslie Gunderson of Prince Albert, Brenda and Kenny McKay of Big River, Judy and Marlow Pister of Big River, Bev Lindskog and Kevin Huard of Big River, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless friends. He was predeceased by his parents Roy (1992) and Mildred (2006) Gunderson, a brother Dwayne (2004), and infant sister Darlene (1935, a brother in law Todd Cromartie 2006). Bernard was born March 1, 1954 in Shellbrook, Sk. He was number 6 of 12 children born to Roy and Millie Gunderson. Bernard held various positions with a number of Companies which included South Construction in the Kerrobert area and in a fish packing plant for Earl Beebe in Big River. in 1972 Bernard went to work in Pine Point NWT to join his family and friends. While there he worked as an equipment operator for a diamond drilling company. In 1975 Bernard returned to Big River and worked for Sask Housing. He also worked for Max Wilson and Len Zinovich before he started his 19 year career with Weyerhaeuser, during which time he became a journeyman carpenter. As a result of the mill shutting down in April 2006, Bernard was able to commit full time to what he loved to do the most: hunting and carpentry. In early fall of 2006, the opportunity rose for Bernard to guide groups of American Hunters and made many good friends. The funeral service was held on Saturday January 3rd, 2009 from the Big River Community Hall with Rev. Brian Maitland officiating. The eulogists were Pat and Howard Forbes and the music was provided by Bill Martodam. The honorary pallbearers were all of the relatives and friends who shared in Bernard's life. The urn bearers were Mary Ellen, Lance and Crystal. Interment took place in the Big River Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to The Saskatchewan Wild Life Federation or Donor's Choice.