Alfred "Al" Gunderson

Alfred "Al" Gunderson, 79, of Paramus passed away on Friday, May 8, 2026. Born in November 1946 at Jewish Memorial Hospital in New York City, he spent his early years living in the Inwood section of Manhattan before moving to Paramus in 1960.

Cherished husband of Sandi. Loving Father to sons Brian(Kristen) Gunderson and Craig(Kayla) Gunderson. Beloved Pop to grandchildren Brianna, Sierra, Claire, Declan and Kieran. Alfred was predeceased by his first wife, Margaret Price and sons Joey and Tommy Gunderson.

After graduating from Paramus High School in 1964, Al briefly worked for New Jersey Bell before enlisting in the United States Air Force. He proudly served as an Air Police K-9 officer and was stationed in Phu Cat, Vietnam, alongside his beloved K-9 partner, King (A038). During his service in Vietnam, he also volunteered at a local orphanage, reflecting the compassion and generosity that defined his life.

He was granted an early discharge from the United States Air Force in order to join the Paramus Police Department, where he proudly served for 38 years, primarily in the Traffic Division. Al especially cherished his work with children's safety programs, bringing smiles and guidance to countless young people through initiatives such as "Officer Phil" and McGruff the Crime Dog.

Following his retirement from the Paramus Police Department, he embraced a joyful new chapter in life by attending clown school and creating the beloved character "Dudley the Clown." As Dudley, he volunteered countless hours at local hospitals and veterans facilities, where he especially loved bringing laughter and comfort to children and fellow veterans alike.

In 2000, together with several close friends, he helped establish the United States War Dogs Association and served on its Board of Directors for many years. In 2006, the association successfully raised more than $100,000 to commission and build the United States War Dog Memorial, located at the New Jersey Vietnam Veterans' Memorial. As a deeply personal tribute, the sculptor placed a bronze heart within the memorial containing cherished mementos from the K-9 partners who had faithfully served alongside members of the Board during the Vietnam War.

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