A memorial service for Vernon Gunderson will be held Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at Bethel Lutheran Church, 810 Third Ave. S.E., Rochester. The Rev. Linda Helberg will officiate.

Mr. Gunderson, age 87, a former Albert Lea area resident, died Monday March 10, 2003, at Riverside Trace Healthcare and Rehabilitation in Rochester.

Interment of the cremated remains will be at the Faith Lutheran Church Cemetery in Blackhammer, Minn., following the memorial service.

Vernon Arthur Gunderson was born Oct. 25, 1915, in Freeborn County, the son of Carl and Olga (Tommerausen) Gunderson. He attended the public schools in Twin Lakes. He was married in 1936 to Grace Moen. Mr. Gunderson worked as a farmhand on the family farm in Freeborn County. He then worked as a tree trimmer and cutter in the Albert Lea area. Also, during his years as an Albert Lea resident, he was a piano player with several area bands.

He and his wife moved to Rochester in 1966 where Mr. Gunderson was self-employed in a janitorial service until his retirement.

Mr. Gunderson is survived by three sisters: Ruby Rogeness of Chicago, Ill., Norma Tukua of Albert Lea, and Lillian Grasdalen of Albert Lea; and a brother, Ardell Gunderson and his wife, Geraldine, of Albert Lea.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Grace; a sister, Sylvia, and two brothers: Truman and Carlisle.

If so desired, memorials may be directed to Bethel Lutheran Church Building Fund or to a charity of the donor’s choosing.

Ranfranz Funeral Home in Rochester is in charge of arrangements.