Thorvald Gunderson was born in Hamar, Norway, February 28, 1854. He immigrated to the United States in 1878 and came to Barnes County where he farmed south of Sanborn. He then moved to Valley City where he was employed in the County Treasurer's office under John Holmes. He served as County Auditor from 1901 to 1907. In all, he worked for the County seventeen years. He then worked for Dr. Platou until his death in 1910.
In 1892, Thorvald married Justine Swenson, who was born in Stavanger, Norway on July 16, 1859.
T. M. (Tom) Gunderson passed away July 27, 1910, leaving his wife and five children: Anna, a teacher, married to Howard McMurtie; Gunda, also a teacher, married to Charles A. Carlson; Martin, (born in 1898) was a highly successful teacher, with a school named in his honor; Esther, the youngest, married to Walter English. They live in Valley City.
Source: Barnes County History 1976 Page 88