Dr. Dale E. Gunderson, MD, passed away peacefully February 25, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to both medicine and community.

Born on July 6, 1944, in Britton, South Dakota, Dale was a "Langford boy" through and through. His early years were filled with the best of small-town life—playing in the band, staying active in sports, and growing up in his local church. Before he found his calling in medicine, Dale was a high school science teacher and coach.

After serving in the U.S. Army, Dale dedicated himself to healing. His journey began at the South Dakota State Medical School and concluded at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School. Following his education, he completed a residency at Parkland Hospital in Dallas, eventually becoming a respected Otolaryngology Fellow. Whether he was teaching the next generation of doctors at the South Dakota School of Medicine or volunteering his time to provide ENT care for those in need, Dale’s work was always about more than just medicine—it was about community.

Outside of the clinic, Dale lived with a sense of adventure and curiosity. He was just as comfortable skiing down a mountain or biking a trail as he was standing knee-deep in a stream panning for gold. In quieter moments, he traded his surgical tools for a paintbrush, capturing the world around him in watercolors.

Dale is survived by his loving wife, Loretta, brother Roger (JoAnn), and his stepchildren, Bobby Nuttle (Kate) and Shelli Grinager (Aaron). He found his greatest joy in being a grandfather to Michael, Olivia, Ian, Noah, Isabel, and Morrison. Dale now joins those who passed before him: his parents, Mildred and Gus Gunderson, and his siblings, Richard and Marjorie.

Dale will be remembered for his passion, his service, and the many lives he touched through his work and kindness. Should friends desire, memorial contributions can be made to Outlaw Ranch.

Friends and family are invited to a visitation from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, March 2, 2026, at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church with a luncheon to follow. Burial will be at 1:30 p.m. at Black Hills National Cemetery.

Please share your memories of Dale at: www.OsheimSchmidt.com.