James “Jimmie” H. Gaunder, 85, of Denison, Texas, and a longtime resident of Perryton, Texas, passed away Sunday, December 20, 2020, in Colbert, Okla. Jimmie was born March 10, 1935, in Taos, N.M., to Paul and Marina “Martinez” Gaunder.
He married Rose Penn on July 16, 1956, in Clayton, N.M. Jimmie worked in the electrical field his entire life and retired as a District Line Foreman, from Texas New Mexico Power Company after 18 years.
He raced motorcycles, cars, and flew airplanes. He played the guitar, drums, piano, organ and sang. Jimmie could play almost any musical instrument by ear and played in many bands. He was a 32 degree Mason and a Golden Trowel Recipient. He also was a Ham Radio Operator, certified scuba diver and a bull rider.
Jimmie is survived by his wife, Rose, of Colbert, Okla.; daughter, Kathy Elkouri of Enid, Okla.; son, Tim Gaunder and wife Bobbie of Yantis, Texas; son, Michael Gaunder and wife Melissa of Newalla, Okla.; son, Marty Gaunder and wife Melissa of Cushing, Okla.; 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren; sister, JoAnna Gaunder Stevens; several nieces and nephews and many loving friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, David Gaunder; two sisters, Ann Robinson and Patti Bulls; one son, Louie Gaunder; and grand-daughter, Hope.
Visitation will be held 1-2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020 at Brown’s Funeral Service in Durant, Okla., and the funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. with Pastor Garry Jordan officiating.
Interment will follow at Rose Hill Cemetery in Calera, Oklahoma.
Arrangements are under the care of Brown’s Funeral Home