Senior Volunteer of the Year - Lyle Gunderson

Lyle Gunderson grew up in a poor household raised by a single father and had to work to help support his family, instilling a passion for putting others before himself. Lyle volunteered to serve in World War II and the Korean War. He has since committed his time to servicing others in any capacity he can, from mentoring youth to serving food to residents in the nursing home. When Lyle was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given a 1-percent chance of survival, his response was “I’m not going to sit in a chair and die.” He continued his service to his community. Lyle served countless hours with Habitat for Humanity of Mason County. Everyone knows Lyle, 89, by his genuine smile and youthful energy. Lyle never hesitates to offer a helping hand to anyone in need, from opening a door to making repairs or driving someone to an appointment. “Lyle chips away at the everyday life that matters and his impact surrounds everyone he meets,” said Jamie Healy, executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Mason County. “He figures out how to make life better for the folks who surround him as well as the organizations that impact others outside of his reach. His energy, perspective on life and determination is contagious.”