John R. Wunder, renowned historian, author, and professor passed away on June 25, 2023 at the age of 78.

The Western History Association writes that John Wunder was a “generalist in the best sense of the word,” publishing on a range of topics from Native American history, the American West, Nebraska and the Great Plains, as well as sports.

He served, most notably, as Associate Dean in the UNL College of Arts and Sciences, President of the UNL Faculty Senate, President of the Western History Association, President of the Mari Sandoz Society, and was the recipient of the 2021 Sower Award in the Humanities from Humanities Nebraska.

Above all, John Wunder is best remembered as a dedicated teacher and mentor. The Western Historical Society shares messages and tributes from former students in their latest announcement. Our own editor-in-Chief says:

John Wunder was always curious, one of the best traits of a historian, and a tireless researcher. We were proud to publish his books and to continue his legacy by publishing many of his former students.

Bridget Barry, Editor-in-Chief

At UNP, John R. Wunder was the co-author or co-editor of Echo of Its Time, The Nebraska-Kansas Act of 1854, and Nebraska Moments. He was also a series editor for the Law in the American West series, and MA or PhD advisor for many of our authors.

For those wishing to honor John, his family suggests contributions to the Chief Standing Bear Scholarship Fund: https://www.nebcommfound.org/give/standingbear/