Albert R. Gutknecht
Albert Rhynold Gutknecht, 91, of Black River Falls, passed away November 22, 2024, at Pineview Nursing Home.
Albert was born August 14, 1933, in Black River Falls, the son of Rhynold and Lillian (Porath) Gutknecht. In 1953, he graduated from Black River Falls High school. On 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. On 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, October 24, 1998, and she was his best friend. During their marriage, they loved deeply, traveled, camped, enjoyed their children and grandchildren. And when Albert’s 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. Albert 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, 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, Kyle Gjerseth; 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 was held Saturday, November 30, 2024, at Buswell’s Funeral Home in Black River Falls. Visitation was held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:30 a.m., with a meal that followed immediately after the service. Burial took place at Sullivan Cemetery after 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.
