Mr. Dwight S. Gunter, 64, of Rochester, was surrounded by his loving family when he passed away at 10:22 AM, Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at his home.  This followed a valiant battle with cancer since 2012.

On November 16, 1954, Dwight Steven Gunter was born in Cass County to Virgil and Beverly Jeanne (Raye) Gunter. Growing up he shared his childhood with two brothers David and Dana.  In 1971 he graduated from Caston High School at the age of 17.

With a strong work ethic, great drive, and a raw skill set of carpentry, Dwight built his first house near Grass Creek, completing it by the time he was 18.  He continued designing, building, and refurbishing his other family homes, often stripping buildings down to the studs.  Over the years his skills evolved from union carpenter to master craftsman being attentive to the most minute detail. Dwight lived by the mantra, learned from his father, "If a man made it, man can change it."

Near Lake Tahoe, California, Dwight and Ruth Richard were married on June 15, 1999.  They have shared 20 years of life's adventures.  A dynamic team, Ruth and Dwight collaborated on many projects over the years, including the former Co-Op Mill which became their home and apartments for rent to others.  Their next commercial endeavor was the transformation of the former Evergreen to the eclectic Evergreen Eatery.

Dwight employed his wisdom and imagination to projects he chose to challenge and conquer. From moving 1000lb I-beams using just the laws of physics, to welding his name in cursive.  With his vision and foresight, Dwight led the way to restore and re-purpose buildings of disrepair into aesthetic, functional beauties that enhance Rochester's downtown allowing our community and our visitors to enjoy.  Most recently, he was working on the former "Dugout" modernizing the bar and beer garden.

To relax, Dwight and Ruth enjoyed many adventures to their favorite destination of America's western beauties.  It was here that they embraced nature, observed wildlife, and hiked the trails of the National Parks.  He was intrigued by the various species of trees noting specific characteristics and birds adaptations.

Left to cherish  Dwight's memory are his wife, Ruth, daughter, Kylise Muse and husband Mike of Indianapolis, two sons, Cameren Gunter of Rochester, Thomas Landis and wife Rachel of Bloomington; two grandsons, Owen Landis, Arlo Landis; two brothers, David Gunter and wife Kathy of Twelve Mile, Dana Gunter and wife Liz of Bremen and several nieces and nephews.

Preceding Dwight in death are his parents Virgil and Beverly Jeanne Gunter and brother Dwayne Gunter at age 4.

A celebration of the life of  Mr. Dwight S. Gunter will be at 3:00 PM on Sunday, August 18, 2019, in the Good Family Funeral Home, 1200 West 18 ^th St., Rochester. Mr. Thomas J. Landis will officiate. Friends may visit with the family from 1 -3:00 PM on Sunday in the funeral home.