Fred A. Gunders, 85, of Gould City, was a World War II veteran and worked as a heavy equipment operator. Mr. Gunders died Monday, February 8, 2010, at the Schoolcraft Medical Care Facility in Manistique.

He was born December 20, 1924, in Flint to Clarence and Anna (nee Becker) Gunders. He moved to Gould City as a child and was graduated from Gould City High School.

Mr. Gunders served in the U.S. Marine Corps in the Southwest Pacific Area during World War II.

He married Shirley A. Fisher February 1, 1947, in Engadine.

He was employed as a heavy equipment operator in highway construction and was member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 324. He was a member of Bousha- Draves-Raski VFW Post 8372 of Engadine and American Legion Post 0290 of Engadine. He was an avid sportsman and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and target practicing. He also liked playing cards and loved spending time with his family and friends. He loved animals.

Mr. Gunders is survived by his wife, Shirley, of Gould City; two daughters and their families, Tamara Wilson of Hastings, and Pamela and Kip Brandemihl of Sanford; two granddaughters; five great-grandchildren; one greatgreat grandson, and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Gunders; a son-inlaw, Ken Wilson, and two grandsons, Ken Wilson and Joe Brandemihl.

Visitation, with Veterans Honor Guard, was Saturday, February 13, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. at Messier-Broullire Funeral Home in Manistique. Services followed at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Al Valentine officiating. Burial will be in Newton Township Cemetery at Gould City.