Obituary of Kathy J. Guenther

Kathy Jean Guenther, née Beaumont, passed away peacefully early November 1, 2024. Her life began in Le Roy, New York on April 4, 1951. She proudly displayed her roots, staying in touch with her classmates and wearing her Jell-O paraphernalia through her final days.

In the late 70s, Kathy moved to Penn Yan, New York with her husband, Karl Guenther (1939–2020). Together, they founded one of the region's first charter transportation companies, K-ventures, and raised their daughter Kourteney Anne Guenther. Her abiding devotion to the region shone in Kathy's intensive community service. She committed her time to volunteer work at Milly's Pantry and the Living Well, local organizations focused on enriching the lives of Yates County's youth. She was an active and outspoken member of Penn Yan's Board of Education for over a decade, advocating for arts, vocational training, and social equality in the school district. Kathy will be dearly remembered as a uniquely assertive voice, tirelessly working to ensure the well-being of Yates County's children.

The undercurrent of Kathy's work was a profound love for the Finger Lakes region. She appreciated its unique sanctity, believing her Seneca Lake home to be, in her words, a place of "beautiful splendor...the most beautiful place on earth." Always respectful of the Finger Lakes' integrity, both Kathy and her late husband, Karl, emphasized their commitment to the local economy by openly supporting its farmers, winemakers, and artisans. Kathy could be found in the halls of Penn Yan's schools, at student drama club productions, FFA showcases, and community fundraisers.

Kathy is survived by her daughter Kourteney, who inherited her love of working with children and her appreciation for art; her devoted brother, Gary Beaumont (wife Faye Beaumont); and her two stepsons, Kreig (wife Mao) and Kevin (wife Katie) Guenther.

A memorial service for Kathy and her husband, Karl, who passed away at the cusp of 2020's COVID outbreak, will be held in late spring of 2025. Details will be made as they become available.

Donations made in Kathy's name to Penn Yan's Living Well, the Penn Yan Academy Music Boosters, Keuka Comfort Care, and the Penn Yan FFA are encouraged to honor her legacy of community service.