Joshua Evan Gunnison

joshua gunnison

August 8, 1990 ~ May 27, 2026

Joshua Evan Gunnison, born August 8, 1990, passed away unexpectedly on May 27, 2026, leaving behind a life marked by kindness, quiet generosity, and a deep loyalty to the people he loved. He will be remembered with love by all who knew him.

Josh shared his life with his partner, Tracy Walker, whose love grounded him and whose companionship brought him joy, steadiness, and a sense of home. Their life together was filled with small rituals, shared humor, and the comfort of knowing they were each other’s safe place.

Josh’s home was also full of the dogs and cats he adored β€” each one a companion, a shadow, and a source of joy. His Australian Shepherd, Loki, held a special place in his heart. Loki was more than a pet; he was Josh’s constant sidekick, riding along to job sites, keeping watch while Josh worked, and curling up beside him at the end of long days. Their bond was unmistakable, the kind of quiet, loyal friendship that reflected Josh’s own nature.

He is survived by his mother, Toni Gunnison (Paul Gunther) and his father, Keith Klemes; his partner, Tracy Walker; sisters, Erica Gunnison and Kate Kersher (Nik Roberts); brothers, Kelton Klemes, Felix Klemes, Josten Klemes, Dexter Klemes, and Benjamin Klemes; his niece, Salix Volta, who adored her uncle’s goofy presence and the way he could turn any moment into a small adventure; and many uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Robert William Gunnison.

Josh’s life was filled with the quiet joys that mattered most to him: long conversations on the porch, the satisfaction of a well‑cut joint, the comfort of familiar music, the warmth of a dog curled at his feet, and the pride of finishing a project that would outlast him. He had an extremely dry sense of humor that left you wondering if you heard him right, and a way of listening that made people feel understood.

Those who knew Josh will remember him as a steady light: warm, quiet, and impossible to forget.

A celebration of Josh’s life will be held at a later date. In honor of him, the family encourages acts of kindness and craftsmanship β€” the kind of care Josh offered so freely.

Services

Funeral Home Assisting The Family:

Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806

(828)252-3535
http://grocefuneralhome.com

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Memories Timeline

Guestbook

  1. In Loving Memory of Josh
    Josh was my oldest son, but he was so much more than thatβ€”he was one of my best friends. Losing him at just 35 years old is a pain that words can hardly describe.
    Josh had a kind heart and a wonderful sense of humor. He could make people laugh when they needed it most and had a way of making those around him feel welcome and cared for. As the oldest of six brothers, he was an important part of our family and a brother who was deeply loved by his five younger brothers.
    Over the years, Josh taught me what love truly is. The time we spent together, the conversations we shared, and the memories we created are treasures I will carry with me forever. I was blessed not only to call him my son, but also my friend.
    Though his life was far too short, the impact he made on the people who knew and loved him will never fade. His kindness, laughter, and spirit will live on in the hearts of his family and friends.
    Josh will be missed dearly every day. We take comfort in knowing that love does not end when someone leaves this world. The love he gave us remains, and his memory will continue to guide us.
    I am proud to be his father, grateful for every moment we shared, and thankful for the privilege of watching him grow into the man he became.
    We love you, Josh. We miss you beyond words, and we will carry you in our hearts for the rest of our lives.
    May Josh’s memory be a blessing to everyone who knew him.

  2. To the friends and family who knew Josh, my heart is aching for each of you. I never met Josh, but I listened to his mother tell the most amazing stories of who he was, what he has accomplished, and how he lived his life. A pure soul for sure. Know that Josh is with his Maker and with those that left this world before him, including doggies. πŸ™‚

  3. Keith Klemes what you wrote is one of the most kind, loving, and thoughtful things you have ever said. I stopped crying as I was reading it. It gave me the strength that I needed to get through this. I finally found the courage to be brave. The strength of our family bond in being supportive through this difficult time. Thank you. I wanted to share one of my favorite memories… of having catfish and fried ice cream with Josh Gunnison I will cherish them forever. And let’s add the thrift stores we went to together. 😊 And besides Josh would want us to remain very happy and enjoy the life we have left. I will miss his voice, his laughter, his smiles, and his beautiful blue eyes, but most of all his kind loving soul, and especially him saying …I love πŸ’• you Aunt Stacey.


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