Lonnie Guenthner

 With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Lonnie, a devoted husband, cherished brother, and beloved friend to many, who left us on September 24, 2026.

  A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, October 5, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., at St. Stephen's Catholic Church in Larimore, ND. A visitation will be held Sunday, October 4, 2026, from 3 to 4 p.m. with a 4:00 p.m. prayer service at the Bilden-Askew Funeral Home in Northwood. 

 Born on February 8, 1949, in Mandan, North Dakota, Lonnie was the treasured son of Duane and Isabel Guenthner. He is preceded in death by his loving parents and his brother, Stewart, and leaves behind a legacy of kindness and dedication that will forever be remembered.

 Lonnie shared a remarkable 42-year marriage with his wife, Joan, whom he married on August 25, 1984. Together, they built not only a successful career but also a life filled with love, partnership, and mutual respect. Their bond was one of deep affection and unwavering support, reflecting the kindhearted nature that defined Lonnie throughout his life.

 A proud graduate of Larimore High School in 1967, Lonnie pursued further education at North Dakota State University until 1969, when he joined the U.S. Army. He served with distinction as a sergeant during a tour in Vietnam, embodying courage and dedication to his country.

 Lonnie's professional journey began early in life as he worked in his parents' grocery store during his grade school and high school years. His passion for the grocery business led him to manage a store in Park River, North Dakota. In 1978, he joined Hornbacher's in Moorhead as a meat cutter before fulfilling a dream by opening a store in Northwood with Joan. In 1984, together they operated the original store until 2006 when a brand-new store was opened. In 2007, the store, along with much of the town, was severely damaged by an F4 tornado. It was nearly 6 months before they were able to reopen. They continued until their retirement in 2012, taking with them wonderful memories of friends and community connections.

 A dedicated member of St. Stevens Catholic Church, the Northwood Commercial Club, the Planning and Zoning Commission, and the Northwood Economic Development group, Lonnie was committed to the betterment of his community. He was known for his warm, welcoming nature and his ability to forge meaningful connections with everyone he met, particularly his customers, who he greeted with genuine kindness.

 Lonnie was a passionate supporter of NDSU football and basketball, proudly following the Bison to numerous championships, including memorable trips to Frisco, Texas. He and Joan shared countless hours in their self-built "Bison room," cheering on their favorite team and creating lasting memories with friends and family.

 Lonnie is survived by his devoted wife Joan, his brother Brent of Red Lake Falls, Minnesota, and his sister Colette (Gary) Pazderic. He also leaves behind five sisters-in-law: Gail Lien (Mark Silverstein), Marcia Smith (with her late husband Steven), Paulette Beeson (with her late husband Brant), Rachel Nikle (Joel), and Wanda Stenerson (Rick), along with numerous nieces and nephews who will miss him dearly.

 Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice, honoring Lonnie's spirit of giving and community support. Lonnie was an organ donor, and his eyes went to help another in need of the gift of sight.

 Lonnie's legacy is one of love, service, and a deep commitment to those he held dear. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his dedication to family and community, and the joy he brought to all who knew him.