Gundersen Medical Foundation, health system mourns the loss of long-time leader

Gundersen is mourning the sudden loss of a long-time leader in the Gundersen Medical Foundation.

David Amborn, who retired in 2016 as senior director of Development after 24 years with the Foundation and 28 years total at Gundersen, died unexpectedly at his home on Valentine's Day. The Bangor native was 68.

"We are devastated. David exemplified leadership with a servant's heart," said Mandy Nogle, director of Philanthropy for Gundersen Medical Foundation. "He was a dedicated advocate for children in our community and a mentor to many fundraising professionals. David always found a way to get the job done, no matter the obstacles at hand. He often used humor to unite a group around a common goal. Even after retirement, David carried the torch as an experienced fundraiser, elevating numerous causes and initiatives, especially children's causes. Our community has lost a great leader. David will be sorely missed."

Along with helping grow the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals program at Gundersen, David was active in Gundersen's Community Contributions Committee and with many local service organizations and charitable efforts. These include board leadership for the La Crosse Rotary Club, Children's Museum of La Crosse, The Parenting Place, the Weber Center for the Performing Arts and many more.

David shared this thought upon his retirement: "I'm proud that we help families throughout our service area. While the national (CMNH) policy is that all money raised locally stays local, we added ‘regardless of where the patient gets his or her care.' It feels good and it feels right to help all kids in our area."