Harold Christian Runden

It is with profound sadness and overflowing love that we announce the passing of Harold Runden on April 13, 2026. Harold lived 76 full years - a life marked by devoted service, steadfast loyalty, and a deep love for the mountain community he called home. He leaves behind a legacy that will be felt for generations in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. Born on November 28, 1949, Harold dedicated 33 remarkable years of his life to serving the State of California through Caltrans. Day after day, he worked to keep California's roads safe and its communities connected - a quiet but powerful contribution to the lives of countless Californians. His commitment to that work spoke volumes about the kind of man he was: dependable, hardworking, and proud of a job done right. In 1992, Harold found his forever home in the mountain paradise of Big Bear, where he lived for over three decades. The clean mountain air, the towering pines, and the warmth of a tight-knit community suited him perfectly. Big Bear was not just a place Harold lived - it was a place he truly belonged. Harold is survived by those who loved him most dearly: his eldest and only son Eric Runden, his daughter Cynthia Cherise Murphy and her husband, his son-in-law Thane Murphy. He is also remembered with appreciation for the care and support provided by his friend and caregiver, Lori Foster. Harold was proud to give back to others in meaningful ways. He regularly donated blood and was an organ donor. After his passing, his final gift was the donation of his skin and tissue to help others, including burn patients, breast cancer patients, those undergoing open heart surgery, and individuals in need of eye tissue for procedures such as glaucoma surgery. Harold Runden was a man of quiet strength and gentle heart. He gave his working years to the roads of California and his soul to the mountains of Big Bear. Though he is gone from our sight, he remains forever in the roads he kept safe, the peaks he loved, and the people whose lives he touched so deeply. He will be missed beyond measure and remembered always with love. Harold will be cremated. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store. - https://www.legacy.com/sympathy/plant-trees?type=obituary&p=211260479&pn=harold-runden&affiliateId=4861&sku=tre-tim&pm=240&_gl=1*1nsrp4z*_gcl_au*MTE5Nzc4NDA1NS4xNzc2Mzc2Mzg4

Harold Christian Runden

November 28, 1949 - April 13, 2026