Richard Louis Gunderson

Peacefully on Thursday, February 20th, 2025, Rick Gunderson passed away at the Douglas Campbell Lodge in Portage la Prairie, MB with his loving family by his side at the age of 80 years.

Rick is survived by the love of his life and ‘Main Squeeze’ Shirley; his special feline companion Miss Kitty; children Randean (Peter) son-in-law Clint and grandchildren Ashley and Autumn; Lindsay (Denton) and grandchildren Chase (Willow), Ryder, and Connor; Tyson (Brenda); Ria (Tim) and grandchildren Myles and Brayden; Dianne (Rob) and grandchildren Nikki (Val), Joey (Ashley) and Alysha; great grandchildren William, Lawrence, and Charles; siblings Steven and Kayleen (Dave), brother is law, Rick Henderson, as well as several nieces, nephews, friends, and his AA family.

Rick was predeceased by his parents Sigrun and Louis, son Bobby, and siblings Vivian, Lorraine, Harold, Diane, Ted, and Lorne.

Rick was born in Piney, MB on July 12, 1944, to Sigrun and Louis Gunderson. As a teenager, he moved to Ontario where he spent several years working for General Motors, Duplate Canada and the Ministry of Transportation. Upon moving back to Manitoba, he began his career at the Royal Canadian Mint as a machinist. He was proud of his work, and he cherished the friendships he made there. Every time a new version of a coin was produced, he made sure that he purchased sets for family.

Rick came into our lives in 1988. Our family quickly loved him for the kind, gentle, compassionate and honest man that he was. The first time Shirley met Rick, she felt comfort with him, he made her feel safe and she knew she would one day marry him. He married Shirley (his main squeeze, he always said she was the love of his life) and family in 1990. As a friend said, it takes a special man to love a lady and also love and embrace the role of being Dad to her children and that he was. He was always there to offer advice whether it was when they were buying a car, a stereo, or just to lend a listening ear when they needed someone to talk to.

Rick’s passion was his music. He was a talented musician and vocalist. He loved playing his guitar and singing, he had his own band and played in several venues in Portage la Prairie and other areas in Manitoba. When he was well, he especially enjoyed playing at the Lions Prairie Manor and Douglas Campbell Lodge for the residents. Every time Rick played a gig he always played a special song for Shirley “I wouldn’t Change You if I Could”. He would sing this to her on every anniversary and any other chance he got. Rick was fortunate to retire at 55 and enjoyed the winters we spent in Texas where he was able to do what he loved and jam every day with the Winter Texan Band.

Ricks other passion was sports-specifically the Winnipeg Jets, the Blue Bombers and the Toronto Blue Jays. He was so happy when the Jets returned, and he got to attend several games.

Rick was involved with AA for numerous years, and he was very proud of his sobriety of over 45 years. Rick guided many people on their journey to achieve sobriety and was always there to listen if someone needed to talk. (One Day at a Time). He was always kind and compassionate and never passed judgement on anyone.

Rick was a proud Canadian he especially loved Canada Day, he would spend numerous hours in the front yard, trying to get the Canada flag to fly just right. He took pride in his yard- dandelions were a constant challenge to him, he could be seen digging them up daily. Rick loved all family holidays. He never sought material gifts, he cherished simple joys like a heartfelt card, a warm hug, or a kind word meant the world to him.

The most important thing to Rick was his family. They meant everything to him. Rick and Shirley would often be seen walking or biking around the neighbourhood together. He spent numerous Saturdays listening to bagpipes watching Ria Highland dance. He loved being a grandpa and watching the grandkids play baseball, football, or judo and attended every school concert or special event in any of their lives. He even taught the kids a secret handshake and how to dance. He had many quirky sayings; memories they’ll have for life. He instilled hard work ethic in them teaching them out in the yard that when you start something, you need to finish it.

When able, Rick and Shirley would spend a week in Ontario with Bobby, Dianne and her family. He especially enjoyed going to their cottage, just sitting and relaxing, enjoying time spent with family or trying his luck at fishing.

Rick suffered many medical issues the past few years. He was lovingly cared for at home by Shirley until he moved to a long-term care home in December 2023.

Our family would like to thank the homecare staff and Alita for the wonderful care they gave to Rick and also the friendship and support they gave to our Mom, it was very much appreciated.

Rest in Peace, Rick, you were loved and respected by so many family and friends and you will be missed.

Thank you for loving me and our family, Rick, I will love you forever, Shirl.

A Celebration of Rick’s life will take place at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel on Saturday, April 26, 2025 at 1:00 pm, led by Rev. Leith Saunders. Interment will be held at Evergreen Memorial Gardens Columbarium.

If friends so desire, donations may be made in Rick’s memory to a charity of your choice.

 A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.