Darrell Gunderson, age 65, of Twin Valley, MN, died Thursday, September 20, 2018 at Sanford Health Hospital in Fargo, ND.

Darrell Lee Gunderson was born January 10, 1953, the son of Arnold and MarLeone Gunderson in Lufkin, TX. He spent his early grade school years in Fertile, MN. In 1960, the family moved to Ada where he graduated from high school. He was involved in wrestling and honing his skills in woodworking, art and archery. He was an avid reader and especially loved reading comic books, renaissance books, biographies, the bible and Louis L'Amour westerns. After high school, Darrell completed his degree in the electrical program at Minnesota State Community and Technical College- Wadena. He was married for a brief time to Shelly Nitschke of Ada.

Darrell began his career as a Journeyman Electrician with his father, Arnold. When he moved to Fargo, he held several different positions and eventually moved to California where he worked at the Presidio in Monterrey. Darrell also developed a following of people who needed an "artistic handyman". His work was done with a special flare and meticulous attention to detail which served him well when he moved to TX where he worked with construction and cared for his grandmother until she passed away. Darrell returned to the Ada area in the 90's, and worked electrical with his father, and tried his hand at the adventure of driving truck cross country before he became disabled.

Darrell was very talented, kind and creative, with a wealth of knowledge about anything you could think of because of all the books he had read.  He loved telling stories, making people smile and laugh. His leather vest, hat and cane were his signature persona. Darrell's artistic handiwork included making beautiful knives, woodworking, making his own bow, drawing, and "tinkering". Memories of Darrell will always be positive in our minds, but what he will most be remembered for are his great bear hugs, his mischievous smile, his heart for special needs, the elderly and babies, his gift to gab, and his unique character.

Darrell is survived by his father, Arnold Gunderson of Ada, MN; and three sisters: Marshalaa (Dennis) Wagner of Carver, MN, Crystal (Mike) Lambert of Gilbert, AZ, and Melody Haaland of Grand Rapids, MN. He is preceded in death by his mother, MarLeone; and a brother, Arlon.

Friends and family are invited for a time of gathering from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Friday, September 28, 2018 at the Anderson Family Funeral Home in Twin Valley.  A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 29, 2018 also at Anderson Family Funeral Home in Twin Valley, MN.

Arrangements entrusted to Anderson Family Funeral Home in Twin Valley. Online guestbook at www.andersonfamilyfh.com