Axel Gunnar Person was born in the Bagley District on April 4, 1931 to Edwin and Brita Person. He was born the fifth child of 8 children. God called dad home on February 8, 2017 after a long battle with cancer.
Gunnar attended Carrot River School and enjoyed playing baseball and hockey. He was baptized and confirmed at Carrot River Valley Lutheran Church.
On August 6, 1960 Gunnar married Joyce Rudnicki. Gunnar began farming with his brother Albert and also had cattle. In 1966, they moved a brand new house onto Gunnar’s parents farmyard where they resided until 2004. Gunnar and Joyce were blessed with 2 children: Wendy (1969) and Kurt (1972). The years on the farm as a family revolved around farming, summer vacations at Waskesiu, taking Kurt to play hockey and Wendy to pursue her singing, Monday night bowling league and time with extended family.
In 2004, Gunnar and Joyce sold their land and farm and bought a home in Melfort. They adjusted well to this big lifestyle change-started attending the Presbyterian Church, continued bowling, Wednesday night cards, made more friends and became actively involved in the Melfort Seniors Place which was such an important place of fellowship for them. During these years, Gunnar was pleased that his children found their life partners and Rob and Tessa were welcomed into the family. Gunnar also was proud to become a grandpa to Wendy and Rob’s kids Daniel and Jon. Daniel and Jon have been a constant source of joy and had a special bond with their grandpa.
Gunnar was a humble and gentle man. He was kind, compassionate, friendly and always had a smile for everyone. He rarely complained and treasured the simple beautiful things in life: his family, nature, being kind and making the best of all situations. He has left us an amazing legacy.
Gunnar leaves behind to mourn his loving wife Joyce; daughter Wendy (Rob) Kasdorf, grandsons: Daniel and Jon; son Kurt (Tessa) Person; three sisters: Jean (Ron) Seib, Joyce (Henry) Lust, Joan Jurke; brother Einar (Selma) Person; brother-in-law Eugene (Joyce) McFarlane; sister-in-law Lilly Person; in-laws: Tony (Elsie) Rudnicki, Mike (Tina) Rudnicki, many nieces, nephews and their families, cousins and friends.
Gunnar was predeceased by his parents Brita and Edwin Person; brother Albert Person; two sisters: Vernette Person and Bernice McFarlane; brother-in-law Harry Jurke.
On behalf of the family we wish to express our gratitude for your many kindnesses of care and support and for your attendance here today. A special thank you to Dr. Strydom and staff for the excellent care Gunnar received.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Axel Gunnar Person, please visit our
Heartfelt Sympathies Store.