Ralph W. Guenther, 74, of Centralia passed away Sunday, March 2, 2025, at Countryside Manor in Mt. Vernon. He was born on July 13, 1950, the son of Clarence Sr. and Pearl (McClelland) Guenther in Centralia.
Survivors include his sister, Judy Hartnell of Centralia; his nieces; and his nephews.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence Sr. and Pearl Guenther; his brother, Clarence Guenther Jr.
Ralph enjoyed his time with Kaskaskia workshop, offering his help where needed and grateful for the friendships he made there. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Centralia. Ralph was appreciative of his “family” at Plaza Verde and looked forward to Bingo there with his friends and neighbors. He thought of himself as a loner, but once Ralph got to talking, he always had a lot to say. Friends and family will remember how he loved to talk on the phone, but no calls after 8 p.m. Ralph could also be found taking daily walks, glad when he ran into others on his route and could strike up a conversation about politics and history. He loved old television shows, and he liked to study and share his family history. Ralph was an amazing story-teller and everyone was always entertained when he was in his talkative mood. He was an Eagle Scout and a talented marksman.
The private family burial will be at Elmwood Cemetery in Centralia. Memorials may be made in Ralph’s honor to the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association or the First United Methodist Church in Centralia and will be accepted for his family at the Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia. Online condolences and memories of Ralph may be shared with his family by visiting maczfuneralhomes.com and/or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Irvin Macz Funeral Home in Centralia is privileged to be assisting the family of Ralph Guenther with arrangements.
