Valerie L. Gunderson

Valerie L. Gunderson, 75, of Roscoe, passed away with her family by her side on Sunday, March 9, 2025. She was born in Rockford, Illinois, on March 21, 1949, to Harold and Maxine (Percival) Brace. Much like her red hair, Valerie had a fiery personality. A devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, she made sure to travel to spend time with family as much as she could. Some of the families favorite memories with Valerie include trips to Las Vegas, Christmas celebrations at her home, conversations over coffee in the morning, and eating her home cooked meals. On a typical day, she could be found watching the news while scrolling through family photos.

She is survived by her loving husband of 43 years, Gary; children, Angela Yates, Sara Brauer; grandchildren, Nicholas (Lisa) Brown, Philip Futrell, Audrey Brauer, Samuel Brauer; great-grandchildren, Brooklyn Futrell, Grayson Brown, Avery Brown; and sister, Carla Mizner. Valerie is predeceased by her parents; stepmother, Sonja Brace; brother, Bradley Brace; and great-granddaughter, Isabelle Brown.

A celebration of Valerie’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the COPD foundation. To send online condolences and share memories, please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.