Mr. Howard E. Guenther

Mr. Howard Guenther, 87, of Knoxville, Illinois died 7:05 p.m. Wednesday, December 22, 2021 at the Illinois Veterans Home, Quincy, Illinois. 

He was born June 9, 1934 in Galesburg to Lowell and Freida (Greene) Guenther.  He married Ruth (McFarlin) Allen, February 6, 1965 in Galesburg.  She preceded him death April 4, 2006. 

Surviving are three sons, Gary “Smoke” Allen of the Philippine Island, Randy Allen of Texas, and Scott (and Kim) Guenther of Texas, three daughters, Sandy Miksch of Texas, Lynn (and Craig) Unrath of Avon, Illinois, and Lori (and Jim) Gilbertson of Knoxville, 15 grandchildren and several great grandchildren.  He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Darrell “Squeak” Allen, a daughter, Sue Smith, and a sister, Norma Goedeke. 

Howard graduated from Galesburg High School in 1952.  He served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958.  He was a welder and pipefitter in the diesel shop for the Burlington Northern/ Santa Fe Rail Road for 44 years and retired July 12, 1996.  He loved to drink coffee and share stories with his friends and anyone who would listen.  He and his wife Ruth were a part of the first Scenic Drive members in Knoxville, selling Funnel Cakes and Elephant Ears.  Howard also enjoyed going to auctions and collecting “Stuff”.  He liked to “repurpose” items and never threw anything away.  He was loved by those that knew him and will be missed by many. 

The family will have a private viewing and then cremation will be accorded.  Graveside service will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 29, 2021 at Oak Lawn Memorial Gardens, Galesburg.  Military honors will be conducted by the Knox County Honor Guard.  Memorials may be made to the Knox County Humane Society.  Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is honored to assist the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mr. Howard E. Guenther, please visit our floral store.