Chad Gunderson

Chad Bennito Gunderson passed away Sunday, July 22, 2018 at only 18 years old.

Chad was born on May 01, 2000 in Salt Lake City, Utah and was raised in Grantsville. Chad attended Grantsville Elementary, Willow Elementary, Grantsville Jr. High, Grantsville High and finished his schooling at Summit High in Orem, Utah. Chad completed his credits and graduated early on February 28, 2018, making everyone so proud of his accomplishment. His dream was to become a certified welder and he was planning to start training so he could play with fire! Chad was employed with KFC in Orem for a short time and was currently evaluating his next steps.

Chad would light any room up and could brighten anyone’s mood. He was funny, silly, kind, thoughtful, fearless and energetic. He was a friend to everyone he met with his infectious smile and playful laugh. Chad was always looking out for the underdog and would be the 1 st person to rush to their side to protect, be-friend, and cheer up. He underestimated the impact he had on everyone around him.

Chad volunteered his time and talents with The Tooele County Giants Special Olympics Team, Camp Discover, and Boy Scout Troop 1109. These groups are all for teens/adults with special needs, and Chad had a special connection with everyone who participated. Chad was asked to attend manager training through KFC. He was part of a special youth advisory team for DCFS, and was interviewed by Channel 4. He was featured on a TV segment about a successful program his high school implemented. Chad was truly a leader in all aspects of his life.

Chad loved his crazy life! He was an artist and loved creating through his drawing, music, boondoggles, and photography. He enjoyed sports throughout out his youth, participating in baseball, basketball, and soccer. Chad loved animals, video games, movies, camping and traveling with his family. Fire fascinated and inspired him.

Chad also had his struggles. His family is grateful to the many therapists, doctors, caseworkers, family and friends that have helped and offered services through out his life.

Chad will be deeply missed by his parents Cheri and Clinton Gunderson. He was their 7th and youngest child. Chad’s silly, sweet smile changed their lives for the better from day 1. They are so thankful for such amazing roller coaster ride of 18 years. “We love you forever!”

Chad is loved deeply, and survived by a large family; Siblings: Corey (Gina), Jessica (Fernando), Cameron, Max (Tabby), Christina and Christopher; Grandmother: Grace Marland; many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and Friends, and biological Brother: Jeffrey Adams. He was also a loving Uncle to April, Paislee and Max, IV. Chad’s spark will be with us eternally!

Chad is preceded in death by his Grandparents: Rose Gunderson, Max Gunderson and biological Brother: Daniel Adams.

Chad’s soul is now at peace in the loving arms of our Savior. He is keeping everyone laughing and entertained until we can all be together again.

Funeral arrangements for Chad will be held at the Willow Creek LDS Church, 410 E Shelley Lane, Grantsville, Utah.

A viewing will be held Thursday, July 26, 2018 from 6-8 p.m. and Friday morning, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m.

The funeral will be Friday July 27, 2018 at 11:00 a.m.

Thank you to everyone for your support through this tragedy.

A Venmo account has been set up to help with expenses: @Cheri-Gunderson