Norman Gunderson

Norman Gunderson, 87, of Fergus Falls, died Sunday, May 10, 2026 at PioneerCare in Fergus Falls.

Norman Carl Gunderson was born August 20, 1938 in Deaconess Lutheran Hospital in Minneapolis, to Carl and Ragna (Salvesen) Gunderson. He attended Lyndale Elementary School, Bryant Junior High School, and graduated in 1956 from Minneapolis Vocational High School. He then attended Lutheran Brethren Bible College in Fergus Falls. Norm began walking with the Lord in his early days, especially in his confirmation days. "God has been good!"

He graduated from Moorhead University in 1964 after also spending 1 ½ years at the University of Minnesota and went on to attend Lutheran Brethren Seminary in Fergus Falls, graduating in 1966. He and Carol Helland were married in 1963.

During the early years, Norman served Lutheran Brethren churches in Malta, MT, Chehalis, WA, and Tacoma, WA. While serving in Malta, he and Carol were blessed with a son, Timothy Jon. Tim passed away in Tacoma from complications of diabetes at the age of 31. Besides pastoring the church, Norman worked for National Church Furnishings as a sales representative, selling pews, carpet, etc. to churches.

In 1975, Norman began working full-time for the Seattle Bulk Mail Center in Federal Way, WA as a machine clerk, retiring after 28-years, and returning to Fergus Falls. Carol passed away in 2014 at Sanford Hospital in Fargo after suffering a sudden heart attack at home.

Norman met Pat Walvatne while both were serving as volunteers for the residents needing to attend Sunday services in the chapel at LB Broen Home, marrying on August 14, 2015. Over those 10+ enjoyable years, many new friends were made and cherished, residents, staff and a host of volunteers and visitors.

Each fall, Norman enjoyed driving his 1951 Massey Ferguson tractor in the Pioneer Thresherman's Association parade in Dalton. Serving on the Deacon Board at Bethel LB Church in Fergus Falls, and taking part in the Helping Hands Program at Inspiration Point Bible Camp have been meaningful times for him.

Preceding him death were his first wife, Carol; son, Timothy; parents, Carl and Ragna Gunderson; sister, Randi Hogan; sisters-in-law, Olive Helland, Luella Helland, Mabel Helland, and Ruth Helland; brothers-in-law, Lloyd Helland, Harland Helland, and Jim Hogan; father-in-law, Oscar Helland; mother-in-law, Hattie Helland; niece, Heidi Helland.

Norm is survived by his wife, Pat Gunderson; step-daughters, Pam (Cy) Kerber of Chanhassen, Brenda (Michael) Stoen of Fergus Falls, Barbara (Ron) Erickson of Williston, ND, Rachel Barrett of Chanhassen; step-son, Michael (Rachael) Walvatne of Eden Prairie; 18 step-grandchildren; four step-great-grandchildren; nieces, Joan (Jim) Soholt and Carolyn (Tim) Penner; nephews, Bob (Terri) Helland, Larry (Pam) Helland, John (Terri) Helland, Bill (Sally) Helland, Mark (Cathie) Helland, and Wayne (Lisa) Helland. He is also survived by numerous cousins and friends.

A special thank you to PioneerCare and Vivie Hospice for the care and kindness given to Norm during his time there.

Memorials preferred to Health Resources Center 126 E. Lincoln Ave. Fergus Falls, MN or Inspiration Point Bible Camp 16157 County Highway 61, Vining, MN 56588.

Service: 11:00 a.m. Monday, May 18, 2026 at Bethel Lutheran Church in Fergus Falls, with visitation one-hour prior to the service at the church.Clergy: Reverend Rich Iverson

Graveside: 12:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at Knife Lake Cemetery, Mora, MN

Arrangements provided by Olson Funeral and Cremation in Fergus Falls.

Online condolences may be sent to www.olsonfuneralhome.com