Lana Gunnell

Celebrating the Life of Lana Hall Archibald Gunnell

Our beloved Lana Hall Archibald Gunnell, a woman whose laughter was as bright as a sunny day on the golf course, gracefully concluded her earthly adventure on April 28, 2025, at the age of 80. Born on August 13, 1944, in the charming town of Logan, Utah, to Melvin Hendry Archibald and Stella Allen Hall Archibald, Lana embraced life with a spirited heart and a twinkle in her eye.

Professionally, Lana excelled in the fine art of making everyone around her feel loved and appreciated. While she didn't necessarily climb the corporate ladder in a traditional sense, her career was one of nurturing relationships, building a warm and welcoming home, and offering a listening ear (often accompanied by a perfectly crocheted afghan). Her dedication to her family was her truest vocation, and she managed it with the precision of a seasoned golfer lining up a perfect putt.

Personally, Lana was a force of nature wrapped in a cozy sweater. Married to her devoted husband, Louis Jerald Gunnell, in the Logan Temple on May 21, 1965, their partnership was a testament to enduring love and shared laughter. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised five wonderful children: Sherice (Kent) Yearsley, Tyler (Julie) Gunnell , Jami Venhaus, Sheyler Gunnell, and Reggie (Perla) Gunnell. Lana’s joy multiplied with the arrival of her 10 grandchildren and then blossomed further with 9 great-grandchildren, each of whom brought a sparkle to her already bright eyes. She was the matriarch who could always be counted on for a comforting hug, a witty remark, and maybe even a slightly competitive game of cards.

Lana had a zest for life that was truly infectious. Whether she was perfecting her swing on the golf course, creating intricate patterns with her crochet hook, or gracefully gliding across the dance floor, she approached every activity with enthusiasm and a smile. Her wonderful sense of humor could lighten any mood, and her love for camping and the great outdoors was a testament to her adventurous spirit. She was also a fiercely loyal fan of the Utah State Aggies, and family gatherings often revolved around cheering (or occasionally bemoaning) their football and basketball games on television.

While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the vibrant life she lived. Lana is survived by her loving husband, Louis Jerald “Jerry” Gunnell, her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She now joins those who preceded her in death, including her parents, her father-in-law Louis J Gunnell, her mother-in-law Edra Norman Gunnell, her beloved son Tyler J Gunnell, and her dear sisters Barbara Jane Blanthorn and Melva Lee “Mae” Summers. We can only imagine the joyous reunion happening, likely filled with laughter and perhaps a good-natured debate about the best way to knit a sweater.

Graveside services will be conducted on Monday, May 5th, at 11:00 am at the Providence Cemetery, 925 River Heights Blvd in River Heights. A viewing to honor Lana’s life will be held on Sunday, May 4th, from 6:00 to 8:00 pm at the White Pine Funeral Home, 753 South 100 East in Logan, and from 9:30 to 10:30 am prior to the graveside on Monday at the funeral home.

Lana will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her warmth, her humor, and her unwavering love will forever be etched in our hearts. We’re pretty sure she’s already found the best golf course in the great beyond and is probably teaching the angels how to crochet the perfect heavenly doily.