Albert Rhynold Gutknecht, age, 91, of Black River Falls, Wisconsin, passed away on November 22, 2024,
at Pineview Nursing Home. He was born on August 14, 1933, in Black River Falls, Wisconsin, the son of
Rhynold and Lillian (Porath) Gutknecht. In 1953, he graduated from Black River Falls High school. On
May 21, 1955, Albert married his high school sweetheart, Joanne Bagan. Together, they had three sons
and a daughter. During their marriage, they enjoyed raising their children, traveling to Europe, camping,
boating, and welcoming grandchildren into their lives. On May 20, 1993, Joanne passed away leaving a
big void in Albert’s life. In 1997, he was introduced to a woman, who helped him find joy again. Albert
married Eileen Neperud on October 24, 1998, and she was his best friend. During their marriage, they
loved deeply, traveled, camped, enjoyed their children and grandchildren. And when his health declined
and his memories slipped, Eileen continued to love and take care of him. Albert was employed at
Nelson Muffler in Black River Falls, for 43 years. He started out as a welder and eventually worked in the
maintenance department. He was well known for being able to fix just about anything, as well as pulling
pranks and jokes on his co-workers. During his younger years, he also worked part-time at Shakey’s
Hideaway Bar in Black River Falls. He was the kind of man, who was always willing to lend a hand to help
a friend and he was always up for sharing a beer and telling a story or two. Albert is survived by his wife,
Eileen Gutknecht; children, Donald (Kully) Gutknecht; John (Karen) Gutknecht; and Jennifer (Gavin)
Johnson; stepchildren, Kathy (Rob) Gjerseth; Kristin (Chris) Merz; grandchildren, Joshua (Kristin)
Gutknecht; Sara (Nick) Radovich; Michelle (Alex) Callaghan; Eric (Gabriella) Gutknecht; Bryce (Amy)
Johnson; and Hannah Johnson; step grandchildren, Daniel Gjerseth; Kyle Gjerseth; great grandchildren,
Hunter and Maddie Cate Radovich; Calvin and Norah Gutknecht; and Archer and Aesop Callaghan.
Albert was preceded in death by an infant son, David; wife, Joanne; parents; and brother, Elmer. A
memorial service will be held at Buswell’s Funeral Home in Black River Falls, on Saturday, November 30,
- The visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m. until the time of service at 11:30 a.m. Immediately
after the service, all are invited to join the family for a meal; burial will be at Sullivan Cemetery following
the luncheon. Memorials may be given to Interfaith Caregivers. There will be a Celebration of Life in
the Summer – Albert’s favorite time of year. Details will be provided in the Banner Journal and on
Facebook.