Gunnar was born and raised in western Montana. He graduated from the University of Montana with a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and later earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Montana School of Law.
During law school, Gunnar completed his clinical requirements with the University of Montana Office of Legal Counsel and gained valuable experience in civil litigation through an internship with a regional law firm with an office in Missoula. Between his first and second years of law school, Gunnar deployed to Syria in support of Operation Inherent Resolve, where he served as the platoon leader of a mechanized infantry platoon and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for exceptionally meritorious service in a combat zone. He continues to serve in leadership roles as a commissioned officer in the Montana Army National Guard.
Outside of work, Gunnar enjoys exploring and recreating outdoors with his wife, young daughter, and their Miniature American Shepherd, Finn Ryder. He also enjoys spending time on Montana’s rivers and lakes and competing in obstacle course races across the western United States.