Martha Ann Gunderson

Martha Ann Gunderson, 94, of Goodland, KS peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of March 11, 2025.

She was born in St. Louis, MO on September 12, 1930, to Fay Harris Sweany and Frances Bishop Sweany. Martha is preceded in death by the loss of her loving husband Carroll Gunderson on April 17, 1993 and her brother Charles Sweany in 2016.

Martha dedicated her life to her faith, to her work as an educator, and to her pets. Martha was a member of multiple churches, including Burlington Christian Church in Burlington, CO and First Christian Church in Goodland, KS. She contributed to the church through her faith and constant bible studies, but also her unique talent as a pianist. She was a member of the Federated Music Club in Goodland as well as the GRMC Hospital Auxiliary, as well as the Delta Kappa Gamma, AAUW.

Martha not only dedicated her time and energy to the church and her students, but she contributed for many years to the efforts of the community’s Red Cross organization; not only as a member but also participated in a leadership capacity to various projects.

Martha and Carroll were not blessed with children, but that didn’t stop them from adopting the 4-legged variety of children. Martha is survived by her beloved cat Marmalade, her brother, Thomas Michael Sweany of Livingston, TX, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, grand nieces and nephews, as well as great grand nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, Martha has requested memorials may be made to the Northwest Kansas Animal Shelter to support their efforts in caring for animals and may be left at the services or mailed to Koons-Russell Funeral Home, 211 N. Main Ave., Goodland, KS 67735.

The family would like to acknowledge numerous close friends that assisted Martha in her later years by bringing groceries, running errands, and driving Martha to various appointments, but would like to especially recognize Donice Monhollon.