Community Mourns Loss of Emily Gunderson Achterberg at 33

Emily Gunderson Achterberg, a beloved member of the Jamestown community, passed away on September 16, 2025, at the Mayo Clinic, following a prolonged battle with chronic illness. She was 33 years old. Despite facing numerous health challenges, including years on dialysis and painful medical procedures, Emily’s spirit remained resilient, allowing her to embrace life fully.

Born on March 13, 1992, in Minot, North Dakota, to Troy and Sheri Gunderson, Emily’s journey was one of strength and determination. She met her husband, Jacob Achterberg, as a teenager at the Ronald McDonald House near the Mayo Clinic, where both were receiving treatment. Their friendship blossomed into a deep love that culminated in their marriage on March 26, 2019, in Arizona.

Emily graduated from Dickinson State University with a degree in communications and a minor in psychology. Her career spanned various roles across Dickinson, Jamestown, and Arizona, with particular passion for her work with non-profits in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and Fargo, North Dakota. She was dedicated to building meaningful relationships, leaving a lasting impact on those she encountered.

Remembering Emily’s Legacy

Emily is survived by her husband, Jacob, their dog Roo, and her immediate family, including her parents and siblings. She is survived by her sister, Natalie (Austin) Dvirnak, and their children, as well as her brother, Parker (Cheyenne) Gunderson, and their children, and her brother Uriah Gunderson. She was preceded in death by her grandmother, Evelyn Gunderson, but is survived by her remaining grandparents, Howard Gunderson, Valeda (Barney) Greenspan, and Phil (Marie) Fabricius, alongside numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Her community has expressed tremendous gratitude for the support received throughout the years, particularly from the family of Christ and her friends.

A prayer service will take place at Temple Baptist Church on Sunday, September 21, at 18:00, with a viewing scheduled an hour prior. A celebration of Emily’s life will be held on Monday, September 22, at 10:00, also at Temple Baptist Church, with visitation beforehand. Following the funeral, a graveside service will occur at Highland Home Cemetery, concluding with a lunch back at the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to assist with expenses or to the Ronald McDonald House in Fargo, North Dakota, which can be accessed through their website.

Emily Gunderson Achterberg’s life was a testament to resilience and love, and her memory will continue to inspire those who knew her.