C. Gordon Guenzler, 74

C. Gordon Guenzler known to most as "Gordy" passed away Dec. 9, 2007. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends. He had been battling cancer and after a brave fight "has gone to be with the Lord."

Gordon was born Aug. 18, 1933, in Ronan. He grew up there and worked with his family on the family farm. He graduated from Ronan High School and soon after joined the Army and served four years.

In 1956 he married Nan Haines (a student at University of Montana). They built a home in Ronan and had three children. In 1963 they purchased a farm and a large piece of property in Bigfork and had their fourth child. Nan and Gordon tried their hand at sheep farming but soon found that it was not their calling.

Later, Gordon built a Grade A dairy which they ran until selling it to develop their timberland into the development know as Swan Hill. Gordon served on both the Swan River elementary and high school boards and was active in the Lions Club.

He helped coach AAU Track for several years. In late 1980, he decided to build a bowling alley in Bigfork. Northshore Lanes was built, owned and operated by the Guenzler family until 1996. Gordon loved to bowl and greatly enjoyed his bowling buddies and customers.

He loved spending many happy hours in his woodworking shop making toys, furniture and picture frames for his family and friends. Gordy also loved hunting, fishing and playing pinochle, but his greatest love was spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Nan; his children, Jeanie, Tim, and Tammy and husband Steve; his pride and joy - 10 grandchildren; a sister, Betty, and husband, Jim; and a brother Walt.

Gordon was preceded in death by his son, Larry; and brothers, Gene and Ronnie.

Memorial services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 13, at the Little Brown Church in Bigfork with Pastor Jim Holman officiating. A private family burial will be held.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.