M. Donald Gunness

M. Donald Gunness M. Donald Gunness, age 92, of Iola, died January 9, 2011 at Riverside Hospital, in Waupaca, WI. He was born to the late Melvin and Amanda (Pederson) Gunness on Feb. 26, 1918 in Janesville, WI. After graduating from Janesville H.S. in 1936 and UW Madison in 1941, he married Doris Burg in 1942. The couple lived in Madison and raised two daughters. Don worked for the US Armed Forces Institute for 31 years. He retired in 1974 and moved to Janesville. Don held leadership roles in service and professional organizations and at First Lutheran Church. He was a charter member of the Sons of Norway, member of the Elks Club and President of the Golden K. He enjoyed golfing, bowling, dancing, camping, theater, opera, concerts, traveling, and volunteering. Don is survived by Doris, his loving wife of 68 years, Iola; his daughters, Donna (Bob) Thompson, Iola, Sandra (Don) Tatman, Cromwell, IN.; four grandchildren, four great grandchildren, two brothers Wayne and Warren (Joan) Gunness, Janesville and numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held May 14, 2011 @ 11:00 AM at the Scandinavia Lutheran Church with visitation from 10-11 AM at church. Lunch will be served at church following the service. Memorials may be given to Iola Living Assistance or to the Scandinavia Lutheran Church where Don was a member. Don shall be remembered as a loving, kind supportive, humble, faithful, and understanding husband and father. He was loved by all and will be greatly missed. Voie Funeral Home of Iola is in charge of arrangements. _______________________________