Eldon Robert Gunderson

Eldon Robert Gunderson of Goodyear, Arizona passed away on Wednesday, August 6th, 2025.

He was 92 years old.

Eldon was born on November 15th, 1932, in Hyde County, South Dakota to parents Robert and Violet Gunderson, who farmed and raised cattle outside of Highmore. Eldon was the oldest of three sons, followed by James and Gareld ("Gary") Gunderson.

Along with his brothers, Eldon was fortunate to have many cousins and "double" cousins to grow up with as he worked on the farm. He attended a country school and graduated from Highmore High School before joining the U.S. Air Force. Though Eldon lived all over the United States-a consequence of his military career--he would remain close with his parents, brothers, and cousins throughout life, visiting South Dakota and attending family reunions for as long as he could travel.

After enlisting in the Air Force, Eldon married Nadine Joy Headley of Menno, South Dakota in 1952, at a small family ceremony at the Highmore home of uncle and aunt, Floyd and Grace Campbell. Soon after marrying, Eldon shipped out for Japan, where he would serve during the Korean War. After returning home, he resumed civilian life, eventually rejoining the Air Force in 1960 as an officer. He would serve in the Air Force for 17 more years, retiring as a Major in 1977. Intent on continuing to support the military, he began work for contractors, Lockheed and Rockwell International, work he did for about 20 more years. He was proud to support the Titan missile, Hubble Telescope, and Space Shuttle programs.

Eldon's passion was being a private pilot. He loved nothing more than pointing the nose of his Mooney to parts well-known (his family home in South Dakota) and less-known (the wilds of Alaska). Later in life, he much enjoyed sailing around the world on numerous cruises with Barbara. He loved motor sports and had a bad habit of driving his Tesla way too fast.

While previously married to Nadine, the couple raised five children--Richard Gunderson, Kay Gunderson Reeves, Linda Gunderson, Robert Gunderson, and Constance Gunderson Zorkocy. Later in life, Eldon was delighted to find himself grandfather to six grandchildren (Evan Gunderson, Charlotte and Jacob Brown, Eddie Zorkocy, Channing Reeves, and Owen Gunderson) and great grandfather to two great grandchildren (Reid Gunderson and Isabelle Shyrock).

On Valentines Day in 1993, Eldon married Barbara Price of Costa Mesa CA. They would soon relocate to Pebble Creek in Goodyear, Arizona, where they made a welcoming home for the entire family for many years.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Barbara, brother James Gunderson, his five children, six grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother Gary.

Eldon will be greatly missed by his wife Barbara who was at his side as he passed, and by his children and grandchildren.

A Memorial Service is being planned for September 23rd at the Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis SD where he will join his brother Gary.