Heinz Herbert Guth

Heinz Herbert Guth, 88 of Merced, California, passed away peacefully on September 26, 2025 surrounded by family. He was born on October 19, 1936, in Breslau, Germany, to Katarina Guth and was the older brother to Adelheid. He grew up during the hardships of World War II and his family was forced to evacuate their home in 1945 and resettle in Lower Saxony, Germany. Despite humble beginnings, Heinz was a bright student who loved geography and was a good swimmer. At 13, he began working as a baker before completing a three-year mechanic’s apprenticeship and earning his Journeyman Certification at a Volkswagen auto shop. He changed careers by having enrolled in the police academy and became a Police Officer before a serious motorcycle accident ended that path. In 1960, at age 26, Heinz immigrated to the United States, speaking little English. He eventually settled in Merced, where he attended night school and earned his high school diploma while taking advanced automotive courses at Merced College. Heinz worked at Isenberg Volkswagen and eventually became a master mechanic. He married Gervais Wagner Sobatta, who passed away ten years later. As a lifelong earner, Heinz continued taking night classes at Merced College where he met Barbara in a Spanish class. He eventually married her, with whom he shared 38 years. Heinz has always enjoyed being active. He was an avid master gardener, cyclist, seasonal duck hunter, and woodworking craftsman. As an outdoorsman, who loved Yosemite, he spent many occasions cross-country skiing, hiking, or photographing nature. Heinz loved to read, solve crossword puzzles, and craft endless house projects. Heinz will be remembered for his witty humor, hard work, and love of learning. Heinz is survived by his stepchildren: Clara Treso, Alex Meza, Stephen Sobatta, and Kristin Sobatta. His grandchildren include: Natalie, Vincent, Deana, Elena, Kevin, and Konrad. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Gateway Community Church in Merced.