Dan Guenther

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Dan Guenther, 65, passed away on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Born on March 2, 1959, with bright red hair to Harlan and Marilyn (Schmidt) Guenther, he was raised in Beatrice, NE with his brother Mike.

Dan attended UNL where he met the love of his life, Kathryn Donelson. They eventually married, and he became a girl dad to Hanna and Kristian.

Dan loved iced tea, grey hoodies, the Doobie Brothers, his dog Truman, a good audiobook or an old fashioned and working out at the gym with his wife. Making a meal and sharing it with his family and friends was his favorite thing. Hospitality was a gift he and his wife Kathy shared. His love for the Lord and his people held the highest importance in his life and it showed. He was steady and constant. You needed him, he showed up. His people were his priority. He worked harder than anyone I know. He was stubborn. He was loyal. He took gold with the dad jokes. He loved the Lord and clung to his Word until his final moments. He was the best husband, dad, gramps/big dog and friend. He’s now healed and whole and looking down on us with love.

Dan is survived by his wife Kathy; daughters Hanna (Aaron) Matzke and Kristian (Tyson) Guenther; granddaughter and fist bump friend, Willa; brother Mike Guenther and his family.

We will miss him every day until we see him again.

Memorial service: 10:30 am Monday, November 18, 2024, Roper and Sons South Lincoln Chapel, 3950 Hohensee Drive.

Memorials in lieu of flowers to The Christian Missionary Alliance and Rise Literacy Zambia.

Link to Service Recording:

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December 23, 2024

Hanna and family, I know myself, my family and many of your CP friends are so saddened by the loss of your dad/Dan. I will never forget the decadent breakfasts he made for us girls at sleepovers! Sending a lot of love and prayers your way, friend.

– Sarah (Stone) Toevs

December 18, 2024

I just learned about the passing of Dan this past November, and I am deeply saddened by the news. Working with him for eight years was an honor that profoundly influenced my career and personal growth. Dan was a remarkable leader and an inspiring individual whose guidance and kindness left a lasting impression on me. I will always be grateful for the invaluable lessons I learned from him. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones

– Nishant Kaushal

November 19, 2024

He was truly a kind and gentle soul, someone whose presence brought positivity and warmth to everyone around him. I had the privilege of working under his guidance and mentorship for almost seven years, a period that has left a lasting impression on my life. His dedication to his work, relentless pursuit of knowledge, and willingness to embrace new challenges were truly inspiring. He treated me not just as a colleague but as a member of his own family, always offering support with a calm and composed demeanor. His departure is not just a professional loss but a deeply personal one for me. I will forever cherish the memories we shared and the invaluable lessons he taught me. I pray to God to grant him eternal peace and a place of rest. I also pray for strength and solace for his family during this incredibly difficult time. May they find comfort in the love and respect he garnered from all of us.

– Mantosh Kumar Jha

November 17, 2024

Dan and I shared a great experience with our troop at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico. Prayers are with your family 🙏

– Chris Carpenter

November 17, 2024

Brad & I are very sad to hear the passing of Dan who was our classmate at Beatrice High School. We shared many classes together and thought the world of him! Prayers to Dan’s family for strength & comfort in the days ahead!

– Kathy Lutz Dusenbery

November 17, 2024

If we could have had a hundred years with Dan it would not have been enough. He was such a kind and gentle soul. He and Kathy have always treated me as family and I feel like a piece of my own family is now missing. He raised two phenomenal daughters and it is so evident that his spirit lives on in them and his granddaughter. Kathy, Hanna, Willa, and Kristian, my heart is with you always.

– Jordan Cook

November 16, 2024

I have memories of Dan and his brother,Mike when they were growing up in Beatrice. Mike and my daughter, Kathy were the same age, having birthdays 2 days apart. Dan was always there when we celebrated birthdays. Dan will certainly be missed, but remember the memories you had together.

– Marilyn Higgins

November 16, 2024

I have lots of memories of working with Dan. Early on, shortly after he joined my team, I remember asking Dan to please not call me Mrs. Henry – I’m just Becky. He honored my wishes, of course, but I knew from the beginning that he was a respectful man. I found Kathy and Dan to always be warm and welcoming. It’s a sadder world without him. Peace and comfort to Kathy and all of their loved ones.

– Becky Henry

November 15, 2024

Dan always had a smile and a calming personality. He would always stop and ask how you were doing, and we are privileged to have known him. Kathy, Hanna and Kristian, you are in our prayers as you navigate this unusual time of missing his presence, and knowing that he is with Jesus.