Gunter Hermann Gork

Gunter Hermann Gork was born on November 21, 1935 in Weischlitz, Germany. He grew up with his mother, father, brother, sister and grandparents. He and his grandfather loved the American west. They were able to read Zane Grey books together from the local library. When he was 14 years old, he began his training to be a carpenter.

At age 19 he left east Germany and made his way to America. He was able to live with his uncle, in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. He took classes to learn English and began working as a carpenter. In 1958 he joined the United States Army. He became a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne and served as military police. He was stationed in West Germany where he met his future wife, Mechthild.

Gunter was discharged in 1961, and married Mechthild in May 1961, in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. In 1962, he proudly became a United States citizen. Gunter was a talented carpenter and devoted husband and father. They had three children, Diana, Stephanie and Christopher. He adored his Mechthild!! Camping in the Colorado Rockies was his favorite vacation. He always picked beautiful secluded spots where we were one with nature! Gunter loved remodeling his home, inside and out. He was blessed in that his passion for carpentry was also his profession.

As his children married and the grandchildren arrived, he became known as “Apa”. All five grandsons loved to follow him around as he worked on his house or yard. He loved when they would imitate him. Such as putting a pencil behind their ears just like Apa!

Gunter’s greatest legacy is his love for his Lord Jesus, his beloved wife Mechthild, his children, grandchildren and America. He exemplified how a father put his family before his own interests and hobbies.

Gunter is survived by his wife, Mechthild, daughter Diana Streckfuss (Ted), daughter Stephanie Swanson, and son Christopher (Marie). Grandsons: Lucas Streckfuss (Shelby), Nathanael Streckfuss, Benjamin Streckfuss, Joshua Gork and Dylan Swanson. Brother Johannes Gork, sister-in-law Sr. Maria Christofera Lauter and many nieces and nephews.