Dr. Peter Guenther

DR. PETER GUENTHER passed away peacefully in his home in the early morning hours of March 29, 2005, his 85th birthday. In so many ways, his life exemplified the best of the "rags to riches" American dream. Rather than monetary gain, however, his achievements were defined by the intangible wealth he offered others through his passion for art, his incomparable teaching ability, his astounding breadth of knowledge, and the high standards to which he held himself, both professionally and personally. His gifts were many; his influence has been far-ranging and long-standing; his legacy is profound. Believing that a divided Cold War Europe, still mending itself from the devastation unleashed by the Third Reich, lacked the opportunities he desired for himself and his family, Peter Guenther moved from Germany with his wife, Andrea, and his four daughters to the United States. His academic life in America began as lecturer at the Witte Museum and as professor of art history at St. Mary's University. He then spent the next three decades as professor of art history at the University of Houston, building a distinguished career decorated with numerous excellence awards and supported by a legion of admirers who returned to his classes time and again for the insights he imparted. During his thirteen years as chairman of the University of Houston's Art Department, Dr. Guenther exhibited great leadership in developing what was a small program at the time into a department that today is highly touted and respected. He introduced modern art onto the university's campus through exhibitions at the Blaffer Gallery, sculptures by the German artist Gerhard Marcks, and courses on German Expressionism and Bauhaus Modernism among others. He was a commanding figure in the world of art history, yet referred to by many in the field as a "true Mensch," a man who showed great kindness and offered inestimable help to others in the early stages of their careers. It was, however, his ability to transmit his passion for art to his students, to teach them to see his beloved paintings - and therefore also to view the world around them - through different eyes, that left an indelible mark on all who attended his classes. Described by former students as a perfect mixture of knowledge, charm, wit, and warmth, Dr. Guenther was a true inspiration, a paragon to students and colleagues alike. He influenced so many lives via his teaching and affected all who came into contact with him through the dignity and respect he exuded and extended to others. To make a difference in this world is grace indeed, but to live a life that touches others is grace beyond compare. All of us are the better for having been touched by him. (ig) May your shadow pass in pirouettes of such amazing grace. that the tears of those who mourn you disappear without a trace In a smoke that shapes their sorrow to the fading of your feet In a ring around the rainbow where the circle is complete. Peter Guenther will be deeply missed by his wife and soul mate of fifty-eight years, his three daughters, two sons-in-law, six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and countless friends, all of whom are blessed to have lived within the circle of his love. His family thanks Patricia Akins for her steadfast care during Peter's last weeks, VITAS Hospice for the important support its staff provided, and special friends Kevin and Wanda at Spring Shadows Pines. To extend Dr. Guenther's legacy and life's work, please consider donating to a scholarship, established long ago in his honor, that provides tuition and travel funds for students pursuing a graduate degree in art history. Checks should be made out to University of Houston, Peter Guenther Scholarship Endowment Fund, and mailed to University of Houston, School of Art, Houston, Texas, 77204-4019, attn: Pat Deeves.