Richard "Rich" Wayne Gunnarson, age 72, passed away on December 8, 2025.

Rich was born on March 22, 1953, in Cherokee, Iowa, to Delores and Robert Gunnarson. He graduated from the University of Northern Iowa and began a long and meaningful career teaching middle school history and geography at Interstate-35 School District—proudly becoming a Roadrunner in 1977. Over the years, Rich coached football, track, and girls' basketball, shaping countless young lives with his patience, humor, and unwavering encouragement.

Rich lived his life with a blend of humor and compassion that made people feel at ease the moment he walked into a room. He was always the first to crack a "dad joke"—and usually the first to laugh at it, too. Whether you were family, friend, or stranger, if you needed help, Rich was already on his way.

A devoted family man, Rich rarely missed a single activity or event for his daughters, often stepping in to coach and cheer from the sidelines. That same joy and support continued with his grandchildren. He often carried his handheld timer, ready to clock a race or celebrate a personal best.

Beyond coaching, Rich was an avid sports fan. He loved rooting for the Packers, the Cubbies, and the Hawkeyes, and enjoyed any chance to talk sports with friends. He treasured his golf outings, weekly breakfasts, and the simple pleasure of a good driveway beer. One of his greatest joys was his annual Canada fishing trip with his dad, brother, and close friends—a cherished tradition since 1971.

Rich is survived by his wife, Jan; daughters Kelley (Jason) Schmitz, Kim (Tim) Schou, and Kristi (Joe) Kerner; grandchildren Hadley, Grant, Nora, Jordan, and Riley; brother Bob (Barb) Gunnarson; sister Marcia Gering; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Delores Gunnarson.

A Celebration of Life Gathering for Richard Wayne Gunnarson, 72, of Indianola, who passed away Monday, December 8, 2025, will be held from 1:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at Overton Funeral Home in Indianola. A Sharing Time will begin at 3:30 p.m. Inurnment of his cremains will take place at 10:00 a.m. Monday, December 15, 2025, at the Indianola I.O.O.F. Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Memorials in Rich's honor may be directed to the Interstate-35 Booster Club.