Harry E. Guth

Harry E. Guth, 90, died January 19, 2015 in his hometown of Perryville, MO. He was born September 30, 1924 in Perryville, MO, to Harry E. Guth Sr. and Ora (Nelson) Guth. Harry graduated from Perryville High School in 1942. While in high school, he excelled in track and football; he subsequently brought those talents to SEMO where he played the position of quarterback of the football team. After one year of college, he answered the call of duty and served in the army during WWII. After serving his country, he attended the University of Missouri-Columbia. He excelled as a track star, known as one of the fastest runners in the country. He held several track records, many of which went unbroken until Mel Gray broke them in the late 1960’s. He graduated from the University of Missouri with a degree from the school of Journalism. He moved to Perryville where he joined his father, Harry Guth Sr., in running the Perry County Republican. He met the love of his life, Barbara Sietz, or as he lovingly called her, “Kizzy” in 1949 and married in 1950. They were blessed with four children. Harry is survived by two daughters, Vicki Guth of St. Louis, MO, Marlene and her husband Lee Lottes of St. Louis; one son Marc and his wife Andrea Guth of Malibu, CA; four grandchildren, Jean Ahsmuhs, Elizabeth OHanlon, Nicholas Guth, Beckett Guth; and one great-grandchild, Rori OHanlon. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife Barbara; and one daughter, Beverly. Harry was a gifted writer and was awarded several literary honors during his career as the newspaper editor. He served his community reporting accurately and fairly, at times with great wit, other times with great poignancy. He also bestowed his wit and insight on his family with a treasure-hold of poems and other writings. His athletic accomplishments did not stop in college. He was a master of the tennis match, with his unstoppable “snot ball.” He even went on to compete in the Senior Olympics, winning numerous events throughout the years. At the age of 70 he had the skill and drive to obtain his pro golf teaching license, so that he could share his love of the game with others. His life was a life well lived; he was loved deeply and he will be missed by all. Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm and on Friday, January 23 from 6:30 – 9:30 am at Young & Sons Funeral Home. He will then be taken to First Presbyterian Church for service at 11:00 am with Rev. Nancy Gillard officiating. Burial in Home Cemetery. Military honors provided by American Legion Post 133 and Delta Team. Memorials are preferred to First Presbyterian Church or St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Young & Sons Funeral Home, Inc. in Perryville, MO provided the arrangements.

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Harry E. Guth

September 30, 1924 - January 19, 2015