Robert Gunder Terlson

Robert Gunder Terlson

March 5, 1928 to May 3, 2023

Robert was born to Edwin and Emma (Wildner) Terlson on March 5, 1928 in New Lisbon, Wisconsin.

He was known as Gundy to his family and friends while growing up.

Preceded in death by his parents, his brother Donald, and sister Joyce.

Survived by his loving wife of 70 years, Lorraine, along with sons Mark (Kaja) and Brad (Cindy), daughter Jan (Tom), 6 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

Gundy lived a childhood full of adventure in New Lisbon and loved to tell tales of characters like “Pegleg” Thompson, and of mischievous deeds like siphoning gas, stealing pickles from the kegs at the factory, and visiting with the hobos that would ride the rails through town. Gundy’s playful, fun-loving spirit stayed with him throughout his life.

At 16, Gundy left home for the first time and hitch-hiked to Idaho to work for the forestry service before enlisting in the Navy one year later where he proudly served, mostly in Hawaii, for 2 years.

Upon discharge, Bob—as he now called himself—moved to Minneapolis where he met the love of his life, Lorraine. Quickly hitting it off, they got married in 1952.

Soon Bob had established close bonds with Lorraine’s parents, brothers, sisters, and in-laws, and began spending time in her hometown area around Park Rapids, Minnesota. Bob loved being outdoors hunting, gardening, and enjoying nature. He and Lorraine spent much of their time during the summer up north and often visited his family in Wisconsin.

Bob made friends easily and had close relationships with colleagues and neighbors. He took long walks with friends on the trails near his long-time home in Golden Valley, MN.  As he got older walks became shorter and less frequent, but still treasured.  He delighted in having coffee and conversation with family and friends, and particularly enjoyed visits from grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Bob had an interest in art.  He enjoyed sketching, oil and acrylic painting and wood carving, and loved giving his creations away to anyone who expressed an interest.  He taught himself to play the harmonica, and continued to play occasionally throughout his life – even purchasing a new harmonica only a month before passing.

Bob will be remembered as a husband and father who took great pride in his family, and greatly missed by those forever touched by his loving, strong, and humble spirit. Burial will be in Park Rapids, MN at a later date.