Notes:
Data source is Ralph R. Beasley. E-mail emb@cncnet.com
Wayne Guenther
1926 - 2013
Resident of San Mateo
It is with enormous sadness that we share the passing of Wayne Guenther on March 4, 2013. In the quiet of his home, Wayne left the loving embrace of family members. We miss him already.
Born in Kansas in 1926, Wayne later moved with his family to Longmont, Colorado, where he met his high school sweetheart, Marilyn Beasley, while attending Longmont High School. After graduating, they married in 1948, with 2013 marking 65 years together. They had three children. Wayne adored his three children, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his loving son Larry.
Wayne dedicated his life to raising his children, teaching the importance of integrity and family values, of love and compassion. Within his family, he shared laughter, held hands, wiped tears, and celebrated triumphs and accomplishments. He lived a life that reflected loving sacrifice and commitment, providing an example that his children and grandchildren strive to follow, and which will live on through future generations.
A prodigy with anything mechanical, his passion with engines began on the farm with tractors and Ford Model A's at the age of eight. He turned his interest and exceptional talent into a 30 year career with United Airlines, becoming a system wide specialist in complex jet engines. He belonged to the Retired United Airlines Employees Association (RUAEA), the local United Airlines Retirees chapter, and Sons in Retirement (SIR).
His home workshop was his domain. He spent many long hours quietly and deliberately fixing anything and everything, and was always on the go. If he couldn't find the right tool he would invent it. He had a creative solution for every problem, finding great satisfaction in scrutinizing details that would frustrate most. Many family members and friends benefited from his talents. He also touched many lives as a scout leader, introducing scouts and their parents to the outdoors and great adventures.
Wayne lived a brilliant life and everyone is the better for knowing him. Gentle, kind, powerful, and infinitely patient, he always had a wonderful sense of humor, even joking with family near the end. He left a legacy that we will forever honor, along with so many fond memories to keep close to our hearts. With tears in our eyes and love in our hearts, we will cherish him always.
Friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service for Wayne at the Burlingame United Methodist Church, 1443 Howard Ave, Burlingame at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2013. Wayne's burial will be in Longmont, Colorado. Memorial donations to your favorite charity should be made in lieu of flowers.
Published in San Jose Mercury News/San Mateo County Times on March 14, 2013