Gaylon Duane Bunger, 75, passed on after a lengthy illness, facing his illness with strength and dignity. He was surrounded by the love of his family.

Born to Kennard and Loris (VanNingen) Bunger on August 21, 1950, in Sioux Falls, SD, Gaylon attended Mark Twain and Irving grade schools, Edison Junior High, and Lincoln High School; all in Sioux Falls.

After high school, Gaylon worked as an assistant manager at McDonald's, becoming the first 'Ronald McDonald' in Sioux Falls. Beginning in 1971, Gaylon worked for Terrace Park Dairy as a delivery driver before working for Russ Ediger Trucking and Thompson Brothers Trucking. While working for those trucking companies, he transitioned into office management work. In 1998 he became a part-owner of TBI trucking, where he worked until he retired in 2019.

After retirement, Gaylon subbed for the Sioux Falls School District. A job he thoroughly enjoyed. He especially loved teaching at the high school level. Through his love of history, many travels, and life experiences, he was able to offer profound expertise to his students.

Gaylon married Susan Claussen on November 19, 1971. They lived in Sioux Falls, until moving to Harrisburg, SD in 2020. From this union came four wonderful children: Adam, Amy, Rachel, and Erik.

Gaylon enjoyed travel, and with his wife Susan traveled all 50 states, and toured 5 continents. He enjoyed watching sports, especially the Green Bay Packers. In his youth, Gaylon played baseball for 'teener' baseball leagues, and went on to play softball for various church softball leagues; including playing ball with his two sons.

He liked woodworking and making improvements to his home. His creative mind led him from one project to another. He was also there to help others and offer his assistance to anyone who asked.

He loved the outdoors.  As a young person he developed a love of camping, hunting, and spending time in nature. The Black Hills was his 'happy place' and his 'go-to' place to spend a few days.

His family was his heart, and he enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his loved ones. His children, grandchildren, and great-grandson were his greatest joys. They will remember him fondly as a caring and loving dad and grandpa. He anxiously awaited the birth of a second great-grandchild. Luca was born the day after great-grandpa passed, and this precious child now gives us all a reason to find happiness amidst our sorrow.

Gaylon – a man of integrity and love, helped others without exception, and expected nothing in return. He advocated fairness for all, and fought against injustice in all forms. He taught us so much; and took care of us so well. Mostly, he taught us to be still and listen to our hearts.

Left to cherish his memories and love, are his wife, Susan, son Adam (Kara) Bunger, daughter Amy Larsen, daughter Rachel (Tim) Rust, and daughter-in-law Louisa (Nate) Bunger. In addition, his beloved grandchildren and great-grandsons: Aaron and Bailey Bunger and great-grandson Luca; Jacob Larsen; Noah Bunger; Seth and Brooke Bunger and great-grandson Beau; Ava Rust; Sera (Brian) Rust; Ryan Larsen; Cora Larsen; and Sabrina Larsen.

Gaylon is additionally survived by his mother-in-law Audrey Wintersteen, brother and sister-in-law Todd and Heidi Bunger, sister and brother-in-law Marcy and Glenn Mushaney, sister-in-law Carla Claussen, sister-in-law Sheryl Jones, brother-in-law and sister-in-law John and Beth Claussen; bonus grandchildren Tobias and Oliver Mikkelsen, as well as a large circle of family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son Erik, father Kennard, mother Loris, fathers-in-law Edwin Claussen and Glen Wintersteen, brothers-in-law Rev. Lynn J. Claussen, Jerry Claussen, and Jeff Jones.

Our family is deeply grateful to the Sanford Healthcare staff and the caregivers at Ava's House for their compassionate, devoted care of Gaylon during his final days, ensuring his comfort and dignity.

A memorial service for Gaylon Bunger will be held at 1:00pm, May 16, 2026, in the Augustana Chapel of Reconciliation. Please join us to celebrate the life of this exceptional man.

(The chapel is located at the center of the Augustana University campus in Sioux Falls; specifically near the Mikkelsen Library and the Madsen Building, at 2001 S. Summit Avenue. Parking lots are available at Summit and 31st Ave, and off Grange and 30th Ave.)