Kinley E. Gunder

Mr. Kinley E. Gunder, 77, of Thorntown, passed away Sunday, November 30, 2025, from a degenerative condition at the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center in Indianapolis. He was born August 9, 1948, in Decatur, Indiana, a son of the late Ross and Lois (Essex) Gunder.

When Kinley’s grandmother asked him to go next door and meet the new teacher, he had no idea he would be meeting his future wife, Darline Crose, after three marriage proposals, she finally said yes. They were married on July 2, 1972, and celebrated 53 years of life and love together.

Kinley proudly served in the United States Air Force for four years during the Vietnam War, most often stationed at a SAC base. His patriotism remained steadfast throughout his life.

He worked many jobs over the years, but spent 20 years as a long-haul truck driver. One of his fondest memories was taking his daughter, Natasha, with him on a cross-country trip to California. Kinley loved traveling the world, especially with Band of Brothers, and treasured the opportunity to visit the places where his father had served during World War II as a cook for General Patton. He also enjoyed having coffee with his friends — including his buddies “from the pit” — and never passed up an opportunity to admire Corvettes or attend a car show. Kinley was a proud member of the VFW and the NRA. He was also an organ donor and was able to help others with this final gift. 

Survivors include his loving wife, Darline Gunder of Thorntown; daughter, Natasha (Shaun) Yeary of Indianapolis; sister, JoEllen (Dennis) Myers; grandchildren, Lane and Emma Yeary; and several aunts, uncles, and cousins. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Gunder.

Memorial contributions in Kinley’s memory may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. U at the VA Hospital for her exceptional care and patience.

Family and friends will gather Friday, December 5, for visitation from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Strawmyer & Drury Mortuary, 2400 N. Lebanon Street, Lebanon. A funeral service will be held Saturday, December 6, at 11 a.m., also at the funeral home. Kinley will be laid to rest at Salem Cemetery in Zionsville. You are invited to visit the funeral home website, www.strawmyerdrury.com, to sign his online register and leave a personal message for the family.