Gustavus "Gus" Guenther

Gustavus "Gus" Guenther, age 96, of Milbank, SD, passed away on Sunday, April 13, 2025, at Avantara - Milbank Nursing Home.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday, April 21, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank, SD. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 20, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the church with a prayer vigil beginning at 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the Mass at the church on Monday. Burial will take place at St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery in Milbank.

Gustavus Frances Guenther was born on May 18, 1928, in Brandon, MN, to Rudolph and Isabella (Joos) Guenther. Gus, as he was affectionately known, lived a life characterized by dedication, service, and a profound love for his family and community.

Gus graduated from Brandon High School with the Class of 1947, after which he answered the call of duty by being drafted into the United States Army in 1951. During the Korean Conflict, he served with valor and was honorably discharged in 1953 as an Army Corporal. His commitment to service extended beyond the military; he was a proud member of the Milbank Fire Department for 17 years and an active participant in American Legion Post #109.

Following his military service, Gus pursued his passion for mechanics by attending Hanson Mechanical School in Fargo, ND. He began his professional journey working as a mechanic at Milbank Implement for five years before realizing his dream of entrepreneurship. In May of 1959, he opened his own auto repair shop and served the community with pride until his retirement in October of 1990.

On June 10, 1961, Gus was united in marriage to the love of his life, Berniece Heffernan. Together, they were blessed with their son, Larry.

Gus’s dedication to his faith was demonstrated through his long-standing membership at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Milbank, where he served as an usher. He was initiated into the Knights of Columbus in 1948, where he not only participated actively but also served as a past Grand Knight, embodying the values of service and community.

Outside of his professional and community commitments, Gus was known for his passion for restoring antique cars and enjoyed the peacefulness of fishing. His spirit, kindness, and humor touched the lives of many who had the privilege to know him.

Left to cherish Gus’s memory are his wife of 63 years, Berniece; son, Larry (Leanne) Guenther of Dayton, MN; and brother, Charles (Lilly) Guenther of St. Peter, MN.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, LaVern Lederman; and brothers: Walter Guenther and Tom Guenther.