Eugene (Gene) Lehman Sunderman was born on October 16, 1942 in Windom, MN to Bunny and Bonnie Sunderman. Gene attended Windom High School where he met his future bride, Karen Johnson. Gene and Karen were married on November 2, 1963.
Gene and Karen had 4 children: Chad, Paige, TJ, and Simone. Gene’s career started by working for Hormel in Austin, MN and Ft. Dodge, IA. and the Continental Grain Co. in Fairmont, MN.
In the fall of 1968, Gene and his family moved to Windom, MN. He drove a truck and grain trailer for several years before buying out Iverson Trucking with his dad and a close friend. This was the start of Sunderman Transfer, Inc (STI). He operated STI for 15 years before selling it to Van Wyk Inc. During this time Gene had also bought and operated a bowling alley, the Sun Bowl, and opened a clothing store with Karen called the Ladybug.
In 1989, Gene joined his wife in a wholesale jewelry business called In His Image Accessories where they worked together for 24 years before retiring in 2013. Throughout their marriage, Gene and Karen enjoyed time at Fish Lake with their family and many travels. Over the past 10 years, they spent the winter months in warmer weather at their home in Ruskin, Florida.
Gene’s faith was the foundation of his life. He was a loving husband and father, a wonderful listener and mentor to many. His servant heart and humble kindness left an impression on those that he came across. He delighted in spiritual conversations and very much looked forward to going home to be with Jesus, his Lord and Savior. Gene died on August 18, 2023.
Gene is preceded in death by his parents Bunny and Bonnie, his in-laws, Spike and Molly Johnson, and his brothers Dick and John.
Gene is survived by his sweetheart, Karen, of nearly 60 years, his sisters Tricia and Kathy, his son Chad (Rhonda), his daughter Paige (Darrell), his son TJ (Jodi), his daughter Simone (Dan), 12 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held at the Windom Community Center (1750 Cottonwood Lake Drive) on Thursday, September 7th at 1:00 pm. Refreshments and a time of visitation will follow the ceremony. A portion of the gifts donated will be made in memory of Gene to the Boys and Girls Club of America.
