Harold Christian Runden

A loving father that touched so many hearts will be forever remembered.

Obituary

It is with profound sadness and overflowing love that we announce the passing of Harold Christian Runden on April 13, 2026. Harold lived 76 full years—a life marked by devoted service, steadfast loyalty, and deep affection 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 35 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 his work spoke volumes about the kind of man he was: dependable, hardworking, and proud of a job done right.

Those who knew Harold knew him best for his straightforwardness, unwavering honesty, and his unmistakable sense of humor. His wit was dry, his sarcasm legendary, and his standards uncompromising. Whether at work or at home, Harold was unafraid to speak his mind—always quick with a sharp joke, but just as swift to offer wisdom, support, and unwavering loyalty to those he loved. He was, in every sense, ‘no-nonsense,’ earning the respect of all who shared in his company.

In 1992, Harold found his forever home in the serenity of Big Bear, residing there for over three decades. The clean mountain air, towering pines, and warmth of the Sugarloaf community suited him perfectly. It was a place where he found both solitude and friendship, and where he was truly at peace.

Harold is survived by those he cherished most: his eldest and only son, Eric Christian Runden; his daughter, Cynthia Cherise Murphy, and her husband, Thane Stewart Murphy; his daughter, Nicole Runden; and his best friend and caregiver, Lori Foster. He is remembered with deep appreciation for his generosity not only in life but also in passing—Harold was a regular blood donor and a registered organ donor, contributions that continue to support and heal others, reflecting the practical compassion that was central to his character.

Harold Runden was a man of quiet strength and honest heart. He gave his working years to the roads of California and his soul to the mountains of Big Bear. Though he has left our sight, he remains forever in the roads he kept safe, the peaks he loved, and the people whose lives he touched so deeply. His absence is felt beyond measure, but he will be remembered always, with enduring respect and love. Harold was cremated, as he wished.

Voice Messages

What did dad say?

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Memory wall

April 27, 2026

Dad was a hustler, he did side jobs such as sweeping the roads for Bill McIntosh and splitting wood and selling it.

Cynthia Murphy

April 27, 2026

Dad’s best friend was Mike Rice, he died years earlier before our dad did. Mike saved dad when he almost died from the motorcycle accident. Dad was in coma for 3 months. Recently doctors scanned his brain and found that he would be losing long term and short term memory, but dad was still sharp and completely coherent before he passed.

Cynthia Murphy

April 27, 2026

Dad would religiously take his “vitamin c” everyday. I now do the same.

Cynthia Murphy

April 27, 2026

Dad loved buying new vehicles as often as he could. Today, I can’t stand car dealerships because of how often we were at one, buying a new car. 😂 Here’s to you dad.

Cynthia Murphy

April 27, 2026

When dad retired, he was loud and proud of all the work he did. He loved working overtime. He loved snow because it meant working overtime. He dedicated 35 years to the state. He would always correct me when I said 33. “No actually 35” Cindy. One thing that burns my heart is that when dad retired all his coworkers gave him a card and signed it and they put a one dollar bill inside. It made him feel worthless. He didn’t cry, but it makes me cry now remembering that. All I can think is what total assholes… 😭💔

Cynthia Murphy

Family tree

Nicole Katey Runden

Eric Christian Runden

Cindy Cherise Murphy

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Nicole Katey Runden

Eric Christian Runden

Cindy Cherise Murphy

Harold Runden

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