Theodore "Ted" M. Guenther

Theodore "Ted" Guenther, age 59 of Glenwood, died Thursday, October 12, 2023 at the Glacial Ridge Hospital surrounded by his family and under the care of Glacial Ridge Hospice. An open house celebrating of Ted's Life will take place from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. on Friday, October 27th at the Glenwood Fire Department. Per Ted's wishes, a private family graveside service will be held at Chippewa Falls Cemetery in Terrace. Services are with the Hoplin-Hitchcock Funeral Home in Glenwood.

Theodore Martin Guenther, affectionately known as Ted, was born on November 27, 1963, in Saint Paul, MN. He was the fourth of six children born to Kenneth and Margaret (Kasel) Guenther. Ted's early life was spent in Alexandria, where he attended school and graduated from Alexandria High School in 1982. He continued his education at Wadena Technical College in Wadena, and then worked as a produce manager for Olsen grocery wholesaler in Alexandria, and at Elmer's Distributing in Morris before accepting a position at Brownie's Tire in Glenwood as a tire technician. Sadly, in 1991, at the age of 27, Ted began experiencing vision and coordination issues which led to his eventual diagnoses of Multiple Sclerosis. While the disease limited his career options, Ted remained undeterred and went to work for Glacial Ridge Computing, where his friendly nature and sense of humor, together with his resilience and determination, made for over 20 years of meaningful and satisfying work.

On September 25, 1983, Ted was united in marriage to Delene Peters. The two made their home in Glenwood and were blessed with two children, TJ and Danielle. Ted and Delene divorced in 1992 and Ted remained in Glenwood. Later on he met and married Luann (Hanson) Paumen on July 1, 1994. Luann was Ted's best friend and constant source of support. When the two married, Ted’s family grew to include Luann’s children, Justin and Jenna.

Ted's commitment to his community was evident in his 17 years of service as a volunteer fireman with the Glenwood Fire Department. Even after his Multiple Sclerosis necessitated retirement, he continued to support the department by helping with fundraisers. Ted's community involvement extended beyond the fire department, as he was an active member of the Glenwood Jaycees and a member of Chippewa Falls Lutheran Church. As his MS progressed, Ted turned coffee time with friends into a hobby. He rarely missed Sunday morning coffee at the fire station and was a regular visitor at Brownie’s and the Gingerbread Café. He also enjoyed the Thursday night poker games at Lakeside Ballroom. Ted faced every challenge with a smile and a joke, spreading joy and laughter wherever he went. His resilience in the face of adversity was a testament to his strength and a source of inspiration to many.

Earlier this year, Ted was diagnosed with an advanced stage cancer. At that time he decided his wish was to continue his daily routine as much as possible for whatever time he had left. With the help of Luann, family, close friends, and Glacial Ridge Hospice, he was able to do just that. Ted passed away at Glacial Ridge Hospital at the age of 59, on Thursday, October 12, 2023, having lived a life marked by love, service, and an unwavering positive spirit. Known for his friendly demeanor, sharp wit, and optimistic outlook, Ted will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ted is survived by his wife of 29 years, Luann Guenther; his son, TJ Guenther of Hutchinson, and daughter, Danielle (Mark) Smith of Sioux Falls, SD; step-children, Justin (Meagan) Paumen of Alexandria, and Jenna (Matt Carlson) Paumen of Hancock; seven grandchildren, Jaxon and Kolby Smith, Braelyn and Chase Paumen, and Hazelynn, Jett, and Brayden Carlson; three sisters, Bonnie (Jim) Erickson, Teresa (Wayne) Geiger, and Emily (Don Erickson) Meyer; along with nieces, nephews, other relatives and countless friends.

Ted was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Margaret; and two siblings, David Kasel and Donna Kasel.

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