Henry “Hank” Guenther

1932 - 2006

Henry Guenther, or Hank as he preferred to be called, was born in Hague, Saskatchewan on July 21^st, 1932, the oldest of 18 children.

He moved to Paraguay with his family when he was 15, and, as the story goes, quickly earned the nickname of “Haskett Ginter” due to the red jacket he proudly wore on the long ship journey to South America.  He returned to Canada alone in 1956 and was later joined by a beautiful young lady, Susan (Neufeld), whom he married in July of 1958. They lived in Altona until 1960 when they moved to Winnipeg to raise their family.

In 1999, Hank and Susan relocated to Penticton, British Columbia, and were enjoying retirement until a debilitating stroke changed life as they knew it. After a year of homecare by his patient and loving wife, Hank moved into a nursing home. Most of the last 4½ years of his life were spent at Salem Home in Winkler, where he received quality care tempered with compassion, empathy, and respect. The family is extremely grateful to the doctors and staff at Salem.

The trucking industry was Hank’s chosen profession, where he quickly progressed from driving to holding management positions.  He loyally served on numerous committees including Toastmasters, Manitoba Trucking Association, Vehicle Maintenance Council, and was on the Manitoba Safety Council for 10 years.   Hank was a strong advocate of seatbelt use and was instrumental in bringing pedestrian crosswalks into Manitoba.  As well, he was a faithful blood donor until his health began to fail.  Hank had strong opinions regarding politics and higher education, and found much enjoyment in music.  He especially loved his grandchildren and was able to develop a personal relationship with each one.

Peacefully, on June 1^st, 2006, Hank Guenther passed away at Salem Home in Winkler with family at his side.

He is survived by his loving wife Susan (Neufeld) of Altona; his mother Anna Guenther of Salem Home in Winkler; Shirl and David, Ryan, Danica, and Jeremy Krahn of Rivers; Al, Lois, Jason, Chris, and Alysha Guenther of Stonewall; Bob, Donna, and Mikaela Guenther of Portage la Prairie; Wayne Guenther, Jennifer and Derek Sharp of Calgary; AB; 5 brothers, 5 sisters, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Hank is predeceased by his father Bernard Guenther, 1 brother, 1 sister, and 5 infant siblings.

If friends so desire, memorial donations may be made to either Back to the Bible Broadcast Box 10 Winnipeg, MB R3C 2G2 or Canadian Diabetes Association 200 310 Broadway Winnipeg, MB R3C 0S6.

Wiebe Funeral Home in care of arrangements.