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STEPHEN GUNTHER Obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for STEPHEN GUNTHER
Linda Goodson
November 9, 2024
Greetings I'm a patient from 2002 and it's 2024 , as I was looking to visit Dr.S. F. Gunther I saw this mess. My late and deepest condolences to his family, Bless you all with the kind spirit he had...
Jay B
June 19, 2024
Hello Gunther family,
I am a former trauma patient of Dr. Gunther and he actually saved my life in 2017. I was looking over my medical notes and felt compelled to reach out to him and say thank you for his amazing work and kindness during a very very hard time in my life (I was set to graduate from my medical program in three weeks when this happened). Unfortunately in my search for contact information for Dr. Gunther, I found out he passed in 2020. I am gutted. I just wanted to reach out to the family and let you all know he was (and still is) so so so so appreciated. I will forever remember this man and be grateful for our brief but immensely meaningful interaction. I am sending you all comfort and love during this crazy time.
With the most sincerity,
JB
Dennis H Gordon
May 5, 2024
Dear Beverly and family. Dennis Gordon from Bethesda days. My sincere sympathies on the loss of Stephen which I was not aware of until the day. I had recently had the conversation with David Lichtman, Steeve, David and I had a great time skiing together at Lake Tahoe years ago on the Bethesda Orthopaedic trip And we were discussing that wonderful event. I had lost contact with Stephen who I so admired and enjoyed for many years. I was always in awe of his talents as a hockey player while we were there is orthopedics surgeons at Bethesda. Many golfing days together. I remember the party at your home when your son had the injury and I took him down to the ER, I gather he is now in orthopaedic surgeon. They were wonderful years and I offer my sincere condolence for the loss of Stephen who I so admired. My admiration to you for , your return to University while we were there at Bethesda being a young mother, still attending full-time university. Wonderful years. Once more my sincere condolences to you and family and please accept my admiration For your family. Steve was one of the greatest sincerely Dennis Gordon.
Currently living in Park City, Utah, retired and if you are ever in our area, we would love to have you come for a visit. Dennis Gordon
Gary Gilyard
December 28, 2023
Dr Gunther always had things written in notebooks. Once I asked him about EMR and he said no way I´ve got everything down right here, as he tapped the notebook emphatically. When my system was converting to EMR and things were so frustrating I
often thought back about that conversation and it made me laugh
I also remember his "ephus" pitch. He played softball with us on the Plaster Blasters team. That pitch stuck EVERYONE out. It went so high it would come directly down on home plate. The other team would yell and complain and Dr Gunther would just laugh
Monica MacAdams
October 31, 2023
My husband came home today from an appointment with his internist, who shared the devastating news that Dr. Gunther, who had performed my husband´s hip-replacement surgery & whose care I had sought for lesser problems, had succumbed to Covid only weeks before the vax was available. I am saddened & stunned.
Dr. Gunther was everything one cd hope for in a physician:knowledgeable, reassuring, charming & funny...and when he mentioned that he was married to his HS sweetheart, he smiled like a schoolboy who had just scored a date with the Homecoming Queen. I took to referring to him as "Dr.Dreamboat" when recommending him to friends with orthopedic complaints.
Upon reading the obituary published herein, I noticed that today wd have been his 82nd birthday. I wish I cd say happy birthday to a guy who made his patients happy, and apparently everyone else he encountered.
My belated and deepest condolences to his family, and especially to Mrs. Gunther, who so obviously made Dr. Gunther very happy.
Melvin Rodriguez
December 28, 2022
Always remembering a good man! Time passes by but memories remain the same, we miss you Dr. Gunther! All your stories and the patience that you had! Your funny ways to make us laugh!
Betty Shumate
December 24, 2021
Whatt a BLOW/shock receiving this news !!! Was thinking of family who I worked for at one time in Potomac, Md. Beverly Gunther I wanted to say Merry Xmas a Wonderful New Year. Betty Shumate
William Price
July 20, 2021
If the hurt associated with losing a great friend and mentor is directly proportional to the tremendous blessing they are (and continue to be) in your life, Steve Gunther was definitely a great friend and gift from God to me. Thank you, Chief. Thank you, Beverly, and Gunther kids, and siblings for sharing him with us. Praise the Lord, and his parents, for lending him to us all.
Elona Evans-McNeill
July 14, 2021
I am so saddened by the worlds lost of this gentle, humble, brilliant teacher and surgeon and extremely funny human being. I first met him as a patient advocate in the WHC ER. Watching him teach his residents while inspiring so much confidence was astounding. He immediately became my orthopedic doing among many things two total knee replacements, hand surgery and several cortisone shots which I never felt. While administering a right shoulder shot he asked me what I was doing laughing with this huge needle in my shoulder. I replied because I have a crazy doc who ALWAYS makes me laugh. He was first and foremost a SUPERB HUMAN AND COMPASSIONATE BEING.
I could go on for hours but won´t. My sincere thanks to his wife Beverly, his children and grands for sharing him with us. We will always be in your debt. I love and miss him so much so cannot even imagine your grief. God bless you all and Red most of all.
Pat Beckham
February 15, 2021
Chief, that is what his nurses on 3F, the orthopaedic unit called him. He not only taught residents he also taught nurses, ortho techs, and anyone he could teach. He will greatly missed. I pray for peace and comfort for Beverly and the entire family. Rest in peace Chief.
Amy Harris
February 14, 2021
Saddened by this news- I just heard of Dr. Gunther’s passing. Such happy memories of working in the OR with him at WHC back in the 80’s. A kind and gentle soul who loved to help and teach those he worked with. In recent years he was my hand doctor and always knew how to help me manage my pain. He even advised me on my career. I can’t imagine the hole that must exist in the hearts of his family. Thank you for sharing him with us. May all your happy memories sustain you during this difficult time.
Mary Sonner Costello
February 7, 2021
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of Dr Gunther. I have such warm memories of him and feel he was taken from us too soon. What a wonderful summary though of a life well loved. Sending my love to Gwen, Bev, Steve, Matt and the rest of the family.
Mary Sonner Costello
February 7, 2021
I am so sorry to learn of the loss of Dr Gunther. I have such warm memories of him and feel he was taken from us too soon. What a wonderful summary though of a life well loved. Sending my love to Gwen, Bev, Steve, Matt and the rest of the family.
Rob and Suzanne Plum
February 5, 2021
My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Gunther family. Steve was such a great person in all regards. He was one of my best speedskating buddies and was always fun to travel with.
Roy Ashley
January 25, 2021
Dr. Gunther operated on my wife Inge’s elbow and my wrist. We appreciated his surgical skills as well as his manner. While biking home, he stopped by our house to check on my progress. He also made a surprise welcomed appearance at my 70th birthday party. Quite a guy!
The Dunlaps
January 13, 2021
Still fondly remember your kids at Onaway and Pasquaney c. 1989. Rest in peace!
Rob Moseley
January 13, 2021
So sorry to hear of Steve's death. We were close friends and lived in the same building for our four years at AMC. I always remember baby- sitting Gwen and Stephen Jr. My heart goes out to Beverly and the children.
Rob Moseley
Friend and AMC classmate
Lucy Sandler, MD
January 12, 2021
Surprised and saddened by the unfortunate news. Many medical school memories are tied up with the passing of a classmate. So sorry. A big loss.
Pamela Cobb
January 12, 2021
When I learned of Dr. Gunther's passing it seemed simply unfathomable, really quite impossible. Dr. G was always an outlier when it came to fitness, health and youthful exuberance-Biking to work or to Chevy Chase Club, having dumbbells in his car so as to be able to do curls at a red light, going from the hospital after a very long day to play late night hockey. Dr. Gunther was the very best Orthopedic mentor, role model, athlete and human being. He was an extremely thoughtful and skilled Orthopedic Surgeon, an incredibly gifted teacher and the best running mate to have on my first marathon (in 2008) carrying a heavy fanny pack stuffed with medical supplies so that he would be able to help others along the way. I, like so many others, will miss him very much. My deepest condolences to Beverly and the entire Gunther family.
Sarah M White
January 11, 2021
We just learned of Steve's passing and are completely heartbroken. His brilliant life, academic excellence, surgical expertise, athletic prowess, wonderful sense of humor, and generous heart will be missed by all. Steve was my Orthopedic Surgery mentor in 1984 during a medical school rotation and his recommendation helped me secure a position in the GW Ortho residency. We worked together in his office at WHC for 3 years. I have really fond memories of that time, especially one day when the courtyard froze over and he decided to go ice skating in his white coat. All the patients were impatiently asking what was taking so long and then we let them look out the windows. As soon as they saw Steve gracefully skating cross the courtyard, they all started laughing. Steve’s youthful zest for life will remain with us forever. Sending thoughts, prayers, and love to Beverly and the entire Gunther family, Sarah White
Miles Heller
January 11, 2021
I graduated from Albany Academy in 1959 and played baseball with Steve. The last time I saw him was at our 60th reunion. He was, as always, youthful and self deprecating, enjoying the company of old friends. Some of my favorite memories of that period in my life include my weekends I’m Troy, with Steve and Stewart Jones. My condolences to Beverly, one of the nicest people I have ever known.
David Pivirotto
January 10, 2021
This was shocking news as I had just had a conversation with Dr. Gunther in front of the Golf Shop at CCC. I enjoyed the many years of playing hockey with and against the good doctor in the "fast" league at Chevy. Dr. G was a great man who was extremely thoughtful and conscientious. He was always positive and upbeat. On the fairways and greens he was a fierce competitor. His methodical play was a mental edge over most of his opponents. He was a great man. May God be with you.
Gary Gilyard GW’89
January 9, 2021
Dr Gunther was a role model for me as an Orthopedic Surgeon and a family man. He never accepted anything but excellence from us residents but showed us how to be compassionate and loving to his family. I will always remember his “Ephus” pitch and winning the GW softball Championship with the “Plaster Blasters”. My prayers to his family. I will always remember him
Sharon Willig
January 7, 2021
Dr. Gunther was the hand surgeon who repaired 3 broken wrists for me. I feel so fortunate that he was my doctor. I will not forget his skill or his positive attitude. To his family, please accept my deepest sympathy.
William Sullivan, Jr.
January 7, 2021
Dr. Stephen Gunther was a kind, thoughtful, and generous man, as well as a highly accomplished, talented and conscientious physician. He also excelled as a superb athlete during those short interludes away from caring for his patients or sharing the loving embrace of his devoted family. I was privileged to have spent many hours with him outdoors during some of his favorite athletic diversions, and I will always remember and cherish both his commitment to excellence in such pursuits as well as his authentic collegiality and sense of sincere companionship. He represented the very best of any of us. God bless him.
Melvin Rodriguez
January 6, 2021
He was a very good teacher, a good surgeon, someone that cared and did the best for his patients, I worked with him and every time it was a real pleasure. Sad that he is gone, may he Rest In Peace
Ellie Evans, RN
January 6, 2021
He was a very kind and respectful person. He always made the time to stop and talk to you. I met him at WHC, on 4H. He would come in and volunteer to help us with his son's dressing changes. You have to be a strong person/parent, to see your son go thru so much pain, every day. I'll always remember his favorite backpack , Sponge Bob. A gift from one of his grandchildren! Treasure all the many memories you have of him. I'll miss him. Thank you, Sincerely, Ellie
Laurence Shandler
January 5, 2021
Joan and I are sadden by this news. We will always have wonderful memories of our years at Albany Medical College.
Larry and Joan Shandler
Izetta Payne
January 5, 2021
I just heard Dr. Gunter passed. He was a good doctor he did my hand surgery In 2017. My thoughts are with his family.
Christine E Fletcher
January 4, 2021
I first spent time in the Gunther home in my late teens, as a friend of Cristi, and more than 20 years later, I still remember being struck by the love in this family -- how they accept and support each other with such patience and gentleness. One of the last times I saw Dr. Gunther, we were outside at the pool, and he was recounting with amazement Robert's ability to recall moments from months before (Robert, his grandson, was just a little one back then). The pride and love in his voice as he told the story was unmistakable. He loved his family, and they loved him. I am sure he knew this. I hope that can be some comfort to the Gunther family, who I know will miss him so much.
Ned Eckert, A A '59
January 4, 2021
A great guy and lots of fond memories that go back a long way!
Susan Martin
January 4, 2021
I had the pleasure of meeting him more than 30 years ago as a new nurse to WHC in the OR. I can honestly say he was always kind and respectful. He always had a smile for you with a twinkle in his eye! Was a pleasure to work with him and will never forget his compassionate soul.
Bless you Dr. Gunther and my deepest condolences to all the family.
Pam (Wilkinson) Brosnan
January 3, 2021
I have just heard the news of the passing of Dr. G., and am beyond sad. I was fortunate to have worked with him for about 6 years in the 1980's. He was a larger-than-life character, so caring and kind to his patients, many of whom waited long past their appointment times to see him. They would grumble at me for their waiting time, but their faces would light up when he walked through the door. He never rushed them, and always gave them the time and attention they needed. He was a respected teacher to the many residents who came through the orthopedic program. Dr. G was also a wonderful family man, devoted to Beverly and their beautiful family. The world has lost a beautiful soul, but we are all the better for having known and loved him. Rest easy, Dr. G. You will not be forgotten. My thoughts, prayers, love and big hugs to Beverly and the family.
Sandra Turner-Glover RN
January 3, 2021
FROM Day1on unit 3F Orthopedics / Step-down Trauma @WHC 38 years ago, I was warmly welcomed by Dr Gunther. He was gracious, patient, supportive,& generous. I shall remember him fondly & smile when I see cyclists coming to work as I often saw him riding his bike into the hospital My condolences to Mrs Gunther , his children,grandchildren, & siblings. May he rest in peace & you all find comfort in your memories
Daniel Mesaros
January 3, 2021
It was a pleasure to work with Dr. Gunther. He always had a good story to tell, a smile on his face, and a funny lunch box or book bag with him. I am honored to have known him and thank his family for his service. My deepest sympathy to the Gunther family.
Katie Hollowed
January 3, 2021
I am so sorry to hear this news. Such a wonderful man who always had a minute to stop in the hallway & say hello. Prayers going out to all of you.
Kurt Newman
January 3, 2021
Steve was a valued friend and colleague at Children’s National. Sharing a locker in the OR for over 30 years, we had countless opportunities to share ideas about patients and medicine. He was generous with his unparalleled wisdom and experience, ranging from the simple to the most complex. As an example he contacted me just 4 weeks ago about an extremely rare condition in a child he had cared for almost 40 years ago which he had reported in a prestigious academic journal-he had come across the article and was asking me if there were any updates on the patient or the condition. Just one example of his compassion and dedication; an inspiration to all who had the privilege to be his patient, student, colleague, or friend. Kurt Newman
Melissa Mourgan
January 3, 2021
I had the pleasure of working with the Legend himself. He was incredibly humble and loved teaching. He was so kind and patient. I remember him sharing his knowledge and showing me the anatomy various tendons and ligaments and nerves. He would ask the medical students questions and he taught in a gentle way. He was always calm and self assured, I knew we shared being veterans but I’d never known he was as accomplished as he was. He’s the most kind hearted, humble and excellent surgeon. He was so even keeled and practical in the OR. You could tell he was passionate about teaching because he always had a spark about him when he was in that role.
Most times folks would brag about an Ivy League education or membership in a brainy inventors and notable accomplishments club, I’ve been a guest of cosmos members in the DC club. We even played golf at the same club but I’d not known any of that and I’m grateful for that because above all else Dr.Gunther was a human. Expressing the kind of humbleness that only a man who knows he is human and is limited in that mortal flaw. He will be deeply missed, but his legend will survive. Through all the memories shared, lives touched and for the few like myself that share their thoughts, they’ll be even more who can’t think of what to say. I know he’s at rest, but I’m sure that even in Heaven he’s looking out for those in need on Earth; nudging residents in the right diagnosis or path and comforting those around him. My prayers and thoughts are with his family and those close to him. I only worked with him but he still made a connection, an impact on my career. I’m lucky to have known him may his legend live on forever. RIP Dr.Gunther you are missed!
Steven F Mazer
January 3, 2021
I was one of the many orthopaedic residents lucky enough to have been trained by Steve Gunther. He took great enjoyment in teaching, and often spent time one on one with his residents long after anyone would have expected their professor would have gone home. He loved to teach and did so with gentleness and patience, never with criticism. He influenced my career greatly.
I am sad for his passing.
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