Steven Sunderland

Steven Sunderland, of Clara City, passed away on Monday, October 26, 2026, at CCM Health at the age of 74.

Visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 29, at Immanuel Lutheran Church. Visitation will continue for one hour prior to the service on Friday.

Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Clara City, with Pastor Joel Gueningsman officiating. Lunch will be served at the Clara City Community Center following the service. Burial will be in Havelock Township Cemetery.

Steven Dale Sunderland was born on September 9, 1952, to Katherine and Dale Sunderland in Montevideo, Minnesota. He was baptized and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Clara City. He graduated from Maynard High School in 1970. After high school, Steven attended technical school before returning to the family farm to begin his lifelong career in farming.

Steven met the love of his life, Lynell, in Maynard in 1980. They married in 1981 and made their home on the family farm east of Montevideo until moving to Clara City in July 2024. To this union, one son was born, Brady.

He will be remembered as a kind, helpful, and friendly man who could talk to anyone and always had a good story to share. He enjoyed traveling during the winter months and spent 10 winters in Arizona. Farming was a lifelong passion, and he also enjoyed reading, woodworking, and collecting stamps. He treasured time at the lake, especially taking pontoon rides and camping with family and friends.

Steven was an active member of Immanuel Lutheran Church. He served as treasurer of the Havelock Township Board and was also a supervisor for the Chippewa County Soil and Water Conservation District for many years. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and was known for his kindness and generosity. Above all, Steven was a proud grandpa who dearly loved his two grandchildren. He rarely, if ever, said no to them, always making time for their requests and creating special memories they will cherish forever. Steven’s warmth, willingness to help others, and gift for storytelling will be fondly remembered. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Steven is survived by his wife, Lynell; his son, Brady (Meghan) Sunderland; his two grandchildren, Braxton and Maverick; his siblings, Brad (Mary) Sunderland, LuAnn (Lonnie) Hansen, and LaNae Sunderland (John Bendickson); a sister-in-law, Cheryl Sunderland; eight nieces and nephews; and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Katherine and Dale Sunderland; his brothers, Kent Sunderland and Russell Sunderland; and other extended family members.