Harold Dean Gudmundsen

In Loving Memory of Harold Dean Gudmundsen (aka Papa)

Harold Dean Gudmundsen passed away peacefully on August 8, 2026, surrounded by his family, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, stories, laughter, jokes, and love. He was a hardworking, dependable, and caring man whose greatest pride was not only in the life he built, but in the family he loved so dearly. His passing leaves an immeasurable space in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Harold was born and raised in Ord, Nebraska, on 13, 1942, a place that always held a special piece of his heart. Son of Curtis and Hazel Barr Gudmundsen, he was a proud Husker fan; he never missed an opportunity to cheer for Nebraska or share his love of the team. His Nebraska roots remained a meaningful part of who he was throughout his life.

Harold was a dedicated businessman who spent many years owning and operating Travel Services Unlimited in Lander, and prior to that, he worked as a Certified Public Accountant for companies such as Boeing and State Farm. His career reflected his hard-working spirit, his dependability, and his ability to connect with and help others. Through his travel agency, he was able to combine his love of people with his love of the world. He enjoyed discovering new places, experiencing new things, and collecting stories and memories along the way.

When he wasn't working or traveling, Harold enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time outdoors. He enjoyed casting a line, sharing a good cup of coffee, and simply spending time with the people he cared about. It was often those quiet, ordinary moments that became the memories his family will treasure most.

Papa's sense of humor was sharp until the end of his life. Always loving a good joke and enjoyed laughter with anyone who would listen. His last joke: what do you call a pig that practices karate? With a twinkle in his eye and a sly grin, he would tell you "Pork Chop".

Above all else, Harold was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. Family was at the center of his heart. He deeply loved his wife, Linda, and treasured his children, Harold and Deana. His grandchildren and great-grandchildren brought him tremendous joy, and he loved his nieces and nephews dearly. He took pride in his family and the lives they were building, and the love he gave them will continue to be carried forward through each generation.

Harold was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda, in 2023, and his grandson, Harold Donovan, also in 2023. Their loss left an immeasurable ache in Papa's heart. Papa is now reunited with two people he loved and missed so dearly, and there is comfort in knowing that they are together again.

He leaves behind his sister, Mary, and brother-in-law, Charlie; his son, Harold, and wife Gloria; his daughter, Deana, and husband Jim; his grandchildren, Drew, Grace, Cheryl, Walter, Sara, her husband Joe, Ian, his wife Lexy, and Thomas; and his great-grandchildren, Brooklyn, Riley, Lilly, Audrey, and Emma. He also leaves behind countless friends, extended family members, and loved ones whose lives were made better simply by knowing him. Harold was Papa to many, and created friendships that became family.

Harold's life was made up of so many little moments —the sound of a Husker game, a cup of coffee, stories from his travels, a day spent outdoors, family gatherings, and the countless conversations and memories that can never be replaced. The things he loved and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of those he left behind.

His journey may have come to an end, but his story does not. It lives on in his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family, and friends—in the lessons he taught, the love he gave, and the memories that will be shared for generations to come.

The family would like to thank and honor the staff at Westward Heights Care Center for their kindness, love, and care of our beloved Daddio. And would like to specifically thank Peanut, Hat Zach, and Joy.

Harold was deeply loved. He will be deeply missed. And he will never be forgotten.

Rest peacefully, Papa, until we meet again.

The memorial service will be held at the Wind River Community Church (120 Valley View Dr., Lander, WY 82520) on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

Inurnment will take place at a later date.

Please sign the online guestbook at: hudsonsfh.com