Laura Jean Gund

Laura Jean Gund, age 60, passed away on January 12, 2026, in Benton, Illinois.

Born on March 21, 1965, in Tomahawk, Wisconsin, Laura was the daughter of Richard and Maryann Zillman. In 1986, she married the love of her life, Edward Gund, and together they shared 39 years of marriage. Together, they took pride in raising their two children. Laura earned her associate’s degree and devoted her life to her family, spending many years as a homeschool mom.

Laura loved puzzles of every kind, coloring, reading, and watching crime shows. She had a special fondness for the movie Big Hero 6, especially the character Baymax. Coffee was her daily comfort, and she delighted in butterflies, hummingbirds, and the beauty of nature. A gifted writer, she expressed her heart through poetry. Above all, Laura cherished her grandchildren, who were truly the light of her life.

She is survived by her husband, Edward; her daughter, Hannah Gund; her son, John Gund; her daughter in law, Sarah Gund; and her beloved grandchildren, Josiah Reed, Miriam, and Henry Gund. She is also survived by her sister, Sheryl Guenther, and her brother, Russel Zillman.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Maryann Zillman.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Blue Funeral Home under the direction of Binkley-Ross Funeral Home. Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, at Blue Funeral Home, located at 1704 North Court Street in Marion, Illinois. The service will follow at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Jesus Mentoring Ministries or to the family.