ALBERT RHYNOLD GUTKNECHT
ALBERT RHYNOLD GUTKNECHT
Albert Rhynold Gutknecht, 91, of Black River Falls, WI, passed away Nov. 22, 2024, at Pine View Nursing Home. He was born Aug. 14, 1933, in Black River Falls, WI, the son of Rhynold and Lillian (Porath) Gutknecht. In 1953, he graduated from Black River Falls High School. May 21, 1955, Albert married his high school sweetheart, Joanne Bagan. Together, they had three sons and a daughter. During their marriage, they enjoyed raising their children, traveling to Europe, camping, boating and welcoming grandchildren into their lives. May 20, 1993, Joanne passed away leaving a big void in Albert’s life. In 1997, he was introduced to a woman, who helped him find joy again. Albert married Eileen Neperud Oct. 24, 1998, and she was his best friend. During their marriage, they loved deeply, traveled, camped and enjoyed their children and grandchildren. And when his health declined and his memories slipped, Eileen continued to love and take care of him.
Albert was employed at Nelson Muffler in Black River Falls for 43 years. He started out as a welder and eventually worked in the maintenance department. He was well known for being able to fix just about anything, as well as pulling pranks and jokes on his co-workers. During his younger years, he also worked part-time at Shakey’s Hideaway Bar in Black River Falls. He was the kind of man who was always willing to lend a hand to help a friend, and he was always up for sharing a beer and telling a story or two. Albert is survived by his wife, Eileen Gutknecht; children Donald (Kully) Gutknecht, John (Karen) Gutknecht and Jennifer (Gavin) Johnson; stepchildren Kathy (Rob) Gjerseth and Kristin (Chris) Merz; grandchildren Joshua (Kristin) Gutknecht; Sara (Nick) Radovich; Michelle (Alex) Callaghan; Eric (Gabriella) Gutknecht; Bryce (Amy) Johnson and Hannah Johnson; step-grandchildren Daniel Gjerseth and Kyle Gjerseth; and great-grandchildren Hunter and Maddie Cate Radovich, Calvin and Norah Gutknecht and Archer and Aesop Callaghan.
Albert was preceded in death by an infant son, David; wife Joanne; parents; and brother Elmer.
A memorial service will be held at Buswell’s Funeral Home in Black River Falls Saturday, Nov. 30, 2024. The visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:30 a.m. Immediately after the service, all are invited to join the family for a meal; burial will be at Sullivan Cemetery following the luncheon. Memorials may be given to Interfaith Caregivers. There will be a celebration of life in the summer – Albert’s favorite time of year. Details will be provided in the Banner Journal and on Facebook.