Werner H. Guenther

Werner Howard Guenther , 91, of Columbus, Nebraska, died Monday, March 20th, 2017, at Brookestone Acres in Columbus. He was born on April 19, 1925, just south of Columbus to Ferdinand H. Guenther and Mary (Odermatt) Guenther. He was one of 12 children. The family moved to a farm just west of Columbus when Werner was one. He received his education at District #5 and Kramer High School. He joined the United States Army on January 15, 1945, during WWII and completed airplane mechanics training. After his discharge he returned home to help his family on the family farm.

On 7/7/1947, he was a tall 22 year old who was hired as a Switchman for the Union Pacific Railroad.

He married Virginia M. Drog on April 20, 1949, at St Edward Catholic Church. They lived in Columbus, Nebraska where their 4 daughters were born. He retired from the Railroad as a Conductor/Brakeman in 1984 after 37 years of service.

In his 33 years of retirement he enjoyed traveling, making 3 trips to Europe, several fishing trips to Canada and traveling around the US in his motorhome visiting many family members and friends. Werner also made many train trips around the country with family. He enjoyed spending time with his family, playing cards, fishing and gardening.

Werner is survived by:
Wife: Virginia Guenther of Columbus
Daughter: Carol (Mike) Boyce of Burlington, KS
Daughter: Marcia (Paul) Louis of Columbus
Daughter: Cindy (Pat) Sackett of Columbus
Daughter: Mary (Frank) Mielak of Columbus
16 Grandchildren, 19 Great Grandchildren, and 2 Great Great Grandchildren
Sister: Jeannette Holliday of Orange Park, FL
Sister: Betty (Dick) Krumland of Spokane, WA
Many Nieces and Nephews

He was preceded in death of his parents, infant daughter, Michelle. Brothers Ed, Clarence, Ferd, Fred and Ted. Sisters Helen Coffey, Elise Barnes, Wilma Krumland, Mary Ann Orr. Step Great Grandson Bodie Houfek.