January 4, 1954 - October 8, 2022

David Laird Gunderson was born in Long Beach, California on January 4th, 1954. He entered eternal rest on October 8, 2022. Dave was the sixth of eight children: Butch Baasch (Anita), Kenneth Baasch, Richard Baasch (Linda), Dennis Gunderson (Char), Norma Ladner (Kevin), Carol Emmerling (Jim), and Connie Bell (Bob).

Living his entire life in Southern California, Dave excelled in both high school sports (football and track) and in making friends and turning those friendships into life-long relationships!

Raised in the Lutheran Church, Dave met Vicki [Todd] and in 1976 they were married at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Downey, where he continued to be a faithful member until his death. Dave is survived by Vicki, his daughters, Crystal and Michelle, sons-in-law, Chris Ticknor, and Kevin Miller, and his beloved grandchildren, Luke and Evangeline. To them, Dave was “Papa” and he was always so very proud of his children and grandchildren!

Dave worked for 48 years in the termite industry, and was widely known as “Dave, the Termite guy.” whom so many loved and respected! During his tenure, Dave developed friendships throughout the area, among realtors who remained loyal to him throughout his career. He played in adult sport leagues, cheered the Downey Vikings on for season after season, and was loved and appreciated by so many people! About people like Dave, it has been said, “Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.”

Indeed, that was Dave Gunderson’s legacy. Rest in peace, dear friend! We shall see you again!