Don & Liz Sundeen

Donald Roy Sundeen was born on September 20, 1943, to Roy and Helen Sundeen in Frederick, Oklahoma. He received an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota and a master's in the domain of fish and wildlife at Montana State University. While living in Minnesota, he met Mary Elizabeth (Liz) Perlich. In December of 1967, they were united in marriage at the bride's home in St. Paul. Don enlisted in the Army and served two years as a biological scientist with an honorable discharge in 1971. He and Liz then moved to Oregon where Don had a long and productive career working for the US Fish and Wildlife Service. They developed a strong interest in viniculture and subsequently purchased 5 acres of property in the Red Hills near Dundee, Oregon. They successfully planted a variety of grapes, eventually selling their vineyard to a commercial entity. Liz was born on October 21, 1943, to Robert and Viola Perlich of St. Paul, Minnesota. She attended undergraduate courses at the University of Minnesota followed by postgraduate study at the University of Washington receiving a master's degree in the field of immunology. After moving to Oregon with Don, Liz enjoyed a fruitful career as a medical technician. Don and Liz found a wonderful home in the city of Dundee where they lived for several decades. They were well known for their deep appreciation of the area and contributed many years of service to the community. Don presided as Mayor of Dundee for two terms and Liz found many civic organizations to which she donated considerable time and constructive ideas. In addition to their association with the wine industry, they enjoyed membership in the Michelbook Country Club with an emphasis on golf. Don and Liz took great delight with their many adventures to the Oregon coast including occasional stops along the way to search for mushrooms. They cultivated many deep and durable friendships throughout their lives. After a brief struggle with cancer, Liz died in April, 2025. She was survived by her husband Don, brother Jim (Karen) Perlich of Indiana, sister Jean (Dick) French and family of Minnesota, and goddaughters Erika Wallin of Oregon and Kathryn Bergmann of Washington. She was preceded in death by her parents. Don died suddenly at home in November, 2025. He is survived by goddaughters Erika and Kathryn and was preceded in death by his parents and his beloved wife. They are interred side by side in the Dundee Pioneer Cemetery.

Don & Liz Sundeen

November 7, 2025