The family of former Shoshone County Sheriff Mike Gunderson, who died last year following a battle with cancer, wants to make sure his legacy lives on.

“His commitment to building stronger communities and ensuring a safe environment for everyone left a profound impact on those around him," said Rylie Gunderson, one of Gunderson’s daughters and director of communications for the Mike Gunderson Memorial Fund

The fund is designed to aid aspiring officers and provide continuing education for men and women in law enforcement. Its aim is to foster safer communities, uphold the values of service and integrity and inspire others to dedicate their lives to helping others.

“We hope to inspire future leaders who will uphold the values of integrity, compassion and dedication that my dad exemplified,” Rylie Gunderson said. “Ultimately, our goal is to keep Mike’s legacy alive by ensuring his memory leaves a lasting, positive impact on the public safety sector and the communities it serves.”  

She added that her father was "a dedicated public servant whose life was marked by unwavering commitment to community safety and service."

A fundraising dinner and auction will be held later this month at the Wallace Elks. Auction items and contributions are being accepted.

When Sheriff Gunderson passed away in February of last year, he left behind a family, a career and a community that loved him. It’s only fitting that part of his legacy would entail a memorial fund started by his family.

“Mike Gunderson lived a life dedicated to public service and helping those around him," Shoshone County Prosecuting Attorney Benjamin Allen said of Gunderson previously. 

Rylie Gunderson said the event is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate her dad’s legacy and raise funds for scholarships."

Info: Visit the Mike Gunderson Memorial Fund Facebook page or email mikegundersonfund@outlook.com.