Thomas J. Gutknecht

Thomas J. “Tom” Gutknecht, 72, of Bonita Springs, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, on April 10, 1953, Tom was the son of the late Ralph J. and Elaine M. (née Steinmetz) Gutknecht. He moved with his family to Southwest Florida 60 years ago from Mt. Troy, PA, and made the Bonita Springs area his lifelong home. Tom graduated from Fort Myers High School in 1972 and began his career working with Seminole Plumbing, while also assisting at night for Englehart Funeral Home. He later worked as a mechanic for Sarlo Mowers. In 1977, Tom answered the call to public service by attending the police academy, beginning a distinguished career with the Lee County Sheriff’s Department. He served the Bonita Springs community for 10 years with dedication and integrity, retiring as a sergeant. Following his retirement from law enforcement, Tom continued his hardworking spirit through several ventures. He owned and operated Bonita Towing and shared his mechanical expertise at Bonita Auto, Butch’s Auto Air, DeVoe Cadillac, Haskins, and Tomahawk. In 2017, alongside his wife, Susan, he embraced a new adventure by founding Liberty Balloons in Bonita Springs. Tom was an active member of his community beyond his professional life. He proudly served for 25 years as a member of the Tropical Masonic Lodge #56 of Ft. Myers F&AM and Araba Shriner’s and was a member of the Motor Division. He also belonged to the Lee County Retirees and the Lee County Pioneers, cherishing the camaraderie and friendships made through these organizations. Above all, Tom was a devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He will be remembered for his generosity, unwavering work ethic, and deep love for his family. He is survived by his loving wife, Susan M. Gutknecht of Bonita Springs; his daughter, Virginia A. Wode (Stefan) of Bokeelia, FL; his brother, Frederick R. “Rick” Gutknecht (Phyllis) of Ellajay, GA; his sisters, Marianne Gutknecht (Sheila) of New Jersey and Elaine Scharon (Renee) of Ohio; three grandchildren, Zoe Shearn (Tanner), Neo Cole, and Kai Cole; one great-grandchild, Juda Shearn; and a second great-grandchild, Sora Shearn, due next month. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews including Chris Gutkencht (Delta), Ericia Garcia (Jose), Edward K. Hansen, III (Jennifer), Allison Goebel (Greg) John Hansen and Marina Mulligan (Steve). Family and friends will gather to honor Tom’s life on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home. Visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow at The Stage Restaurant. Burial will take place at Restlawn Memorial Gardens in Port Charlotte, FL. To sign his guest register or leave condolences online, please visit www.ShikanyFuneralHome.com. Arrangements are in the care of Shikany’s Bonita Funeral Home, Family Owned and Operated Since 1978.

Thomas J. Gutknecht

April 10, 1953 - September 27, 2025