Kenneth Paul Gunther

Ken Gunther was called home by his Heavenly Father on July 11, 2026. Ken was 87 years old. Ken is survived by his sister Sylvia Shelton, wife Sharon Gunther, daughters Allison Jones and husband Gordon, Jolie Harnack and husband Tony and son John Gunther and wife Jennifer and step daughter Kendra Purtell and husband Buddy. Ken, fondly known as Papa, is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. In January 1939, Ken was born in Colorado. He was the youngest brother to siblings Bob and Sylvia and son to Agnes and R. Elmer Gunther. Early in his childhood, his family moved to California when his father was called to be the Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in San Bernardino. Later when his family moved to Norwalk, he attended Excelsior High School and developed a passion for classic and customized cars which he pursued through involvement in car clubs, and attending car shows. After High School, Ken went on to college. It was there that he realized his inclination for drafting and design. This was the beginning of what turned into a successful career as an architect in residential and commercial construction. Ken had a unique gift of bridging the gap between the creative drawing board and complex construction site. Ken was blessed to share his life with two extraordinary women. At 23, he married Margaret Frances Gregory and together they had 3 children and built a life together for 35 years in Fullerton. They were true partners in life until her passing at the age of 56. Her loss was profound and she remained forever in his heart. Ken slowly began to heal and later married Sharon Lazenby. They were a perfect match during this tender season of both their lives. Sharon brought light, joy, and love back into Ken's life, and together they embraced every opportunity to travel, strengthen their faith, cherish their family, and create countless adventures and treasured memories. Ken retired at the age of 65, but retirement was never going to slow him down. He still had countless ideas and projects he was eager to pursue. His love of Golden Spoon Frozen Yogurt inspired him and Sharon to purchase their first franchise, and their enthusiasm and hard work soon led to the expansion of two additional stores. For Ken, retirement wasn't an end - it was simply the beginning of a new adventure. One of his favorite activities was being involved in the lives of his children and grandchildren. He showed up - for every game, award ceremony, special event and major milestone. He was always present and supported his family in the things they loved. Ken leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the buildings he designed or the businesses he built. He was also very proud to serve his country in the National Guard. His true legacy lives on through the faith he shared, the family he cherished, the kindness he extended, and the many lives he touched. He showed us how to love deeply, serve humbly, laugh often, work hard, and trust God completely. He will be forever loved, deeply missed, and joyfully remembered until we meet again. A memorial service will be held Saturday August 22, 2026 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 185 S Center St., Orange, CA at 11:00 am with reception following. In lieu of flowers, donations to OC United - In Memory of Ken Gunther are greatly appreciated: https://secure.everyaction.com/inN9H1iReUKrRtokhnT38Q2

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Kenneth Paul Gunther

January 15, 1939 - July 11, 2026