William F. “Bill” Guthrie, Ph.D., 85, of Mentor, Ohio, died after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease on December 17, 2019, at Enclave of Newell Creek, Mentor. He was born on June 8, 1934, in New Castle.
Following graduation from New Castle High School, he enlisted in the US Navy and served aboard the battleship USS Wisconsin. Following his Navy service, he enrolled at Slippery Rock College and earned a degree in Education. In 1963 Bill and wife Helen moved to Mentor where Bill accepted a position as a teacher with the Mentor School System and taught at Memorial Jr. High. During his time there Bill also earned his Doctoral Degree in Education from Kent State University.
Following his retirement from Mentor Schools, Bill worked for Parkview Federal Bank as a mailroom supervisor. In his free time, Bill enjoyed woodworking, making many clocks and picture puzzles for family and friends. He also enjoyed spending time with family and watching grandchildren participate in their various activities.
His family and friends will always remember him as a giving father. He was never at a loss for a quick joke or humorous comment. Bill touched the lives of hundreds of students who still share many memories with family members of him in the classroom.
Survivors include his children: Barbara (Robert) Kovacs, Kathleen (Michael) St. Amand and Robert (Nancy) Guthrie; grandchildren: Daniel Kovacs, Tyler and Ross St. Amand, Bradley (Ellen), Alexander and Ethan Guthrie; great-grandchildren: Aiden and Addisyn Kovacs; future great-granddaughter: Ivy Rose Guthrie; sister: Judy Mittelo and brother: Richard Guthrie.
Preceding him in death were his wife of 45 years, parents Harry and Dorothy Guthrie, and siblings Kathleen Senkbeil and Mark Guthrie.
Interment was in Mentor Cemetery.
Bill was the 189th classmate to walk down the aisle at graduation. After his name in the Yearbook, it reads: German Club 10-11-12, Hall patrol 11, Guidance Committee 12.
William F.
'Bill' Guthrie
Bill with the late Bill Mansfield at the 50th Reunion.
