Forest River is bidding farewell to industry legend Don Gunden, general manager of Rockwood, Flagstaff, Palomino and other Forest River brands, after he officially announced his retirement.
Gunden joined Forest River in 1975 with the Rockwood brand, and as he jokes, “was part of the baggage ever since.” Under Gunden’s leadership and entrepreneurial spirit, Forest River’s Millersburg manufacturing campus developed into one of the industry’s highest quality production facilities, the OEM said.
Pete Liegl, president of Forest River, expressed his appreciation for Gunden’s contributions.
“It’s with mixed emotions that we say goodbye to Don, who has been an integral part of Forest River since its start. Gunny leaves not only a successful career but also a lasting impact on our company and the entire RV industry. We are grateful for his years of service and wish him a well-deserved retirement,” Liegl said.
“I am completing my plan of retiring at 55, only 18 years late,” said Gunden. “It has been a lot of fun to watch Forest River grow into the company it has become and I am honored to have been a part of it. I’m confident that the talented team in place will take things to the next level, and while I will miss everyone, I will also cherish the relationships that have come into my life over the years.”
Forest River extended a heartfelt congratulations to Gunden on his retirement.
“We are immensely grateful for his years of service and wish him all the best in this new chapter of life,” the company said.