Gunnar Nelson Bjorkland, age 22, of Southbridge, MA left this world unexpectedly on Saturday February 20, 2021. He was born in Oswego, New York on April 11, 1998 and grew up in Southbridge, MA before moving to Charlton, MA.
Gunnar leaves behind his loving family who cherished him and all the memories they shared. He leaves his mother Crystal Barber Miller and her husband David Miller, his brother Damion P Bjorkland, sisters Madison M Miller and Brooklynn M Miller of Charlton, MA. His father Thomas H Bjorkland Jr. and his wife Lisa Shea of Columbia, CT. Gunnar also leaves behind his loving extended family, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and many close friends whom he considered family.
In his early youth, Gunnar was drawn to military service. At the age of 11, he entered the Worcester Naval Sea Cadet Corps achieving the highest rank of Chief Petty Officer by age 18. Gunnar graduated from Shepard Hill Regional High School and became a licensed EMT from Quinsigamond Community College in 2016. After becoming an EMT he served on the Webster EMS and Charlton Fire Department. He then decided to follow his dream of entrepreneurship and built his company, Interesting Logistics, Inc. from the ground up. He was devoted to the company and considered his employees family.
He loved a good craft stout or IPA, trivia night, BBQ ribs and Mexican night at the Log Cabin. He enjoyed long walks in the woods and nature. Gunnar had a passion for road trips and to see the world at a young age. His travels took him throughout Europe, Canada, the Caribbean and many more. Giving back to the community was important to him. He was a member of the Festival of Giving Trees in Southbridge, MA for 12 years and at the age of 19 he was unanimously voted on to the Board of Directors.
Gunnar was truly an old soul who loved a good laugh, spending time with his family and friends and being close to those he loved. He treasured family traditions and holidays. He was a passionate and tenacious debater, especially on topics close to his heart. He was always up for a good conversation especially about Elon Musk. Most of all, Gunnar was the kindest, most loving person who always saw the good in people. He supported his friends and family and helped them see their full potential and pushed them to be their best. His “can do” attitude could not be denied. He wanted to make the world a better place. His drive, passion and positivity were contagious. You could not help but smile when Gunnar was in the room. He touched so many lives and was a force of influence to those who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed by everyone.
Calling hours will be held at the Robert J. Miller - Charlton Funeral home, 175 Old Worcester Rd, Charlton MA on Friday, March 5th, 2021 from 5-8pm adhering to social distancing and masking guidelines. A celebration of Gunnar’s life will be held at a later date.
The family asks that flowers be omitted and donations be made in Gunnar’s name to one of the non-profits he was dedicated to and passionately supported: Worcester Naval Sea Cadet Corps (please mail checks to: Stephen Koopman 5 Jackson Rd, Webster, MA 01570 or email:[email protected]) and/or The Festival of Giving Trees (https://sparklingtrees.com)
To leave an online message of condolence, please visit: RJMillerfunerals.net