John David Guenther, age 79, of Cohasset, MN, passed away Sunday, June 2, 2024, surrounded by family at his residence.

John was born in 1944, to Paul and Mary Francis Guenther in LaCrosse, WI.  He grew up in the Houston, MN area and graduated from Houston High School. While in high school he served in the US Navy reserves, and then going into active duty after graduating. When John was 14, he met Claudia, and after becoming high school sweethearts, the pair was married on June 26, 1965. After his discharge from the Navy, he attended Winona State college, where he got his master's in psychology. John taught at Anoka-Ramsey College. His lengthy career with the DNR (Department of Natural Resources) began in St. Paul in 1974. He had many roles including serving as the assistant to Commissioner, Joe Alexander. In 1995, he moved to Grand Rapids to become the Regional Director, eventually taking on the role of Fish and Wildlife Director until he retired in 2006.

John was an avid outdoorsman and was passionate about fishing and hunting, often planning trips with friends. He enjoyed reading, cooking, traveling, and spending winters with Claudia in Texas. John was a member of Ducks Unlimited, Ruffed Grouse Society, MN Deer Hunters Association, Pheasants Forever and many other organizations.

He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Bradley; siblings, Tom Guenther, Gordon Guenther, and Gretchen Combs. John is survived by his wife of 58 years, Claudia; daughter, Lori Radermacher; grandchildren, Jake, Terra, and Alyssa Radermacher.

A visitation will be held on Friday, June 7, 2024 at Rowe Funeral Home beginning at 2:00 PM and lasting until the 3:00 PM memorial service. Miliary honors will be performed by Grand Rapids Area Veterans. Lay Pastor Mary Shideler will officiate.