Dr. G. Manny Gunne

“That’s life” — and Crusher definitely did it his way.

Dr. G. Manny Gunne, lovingly known as “Crusher,” was born Manuel Patrick Gonzalez on March 17, 1937 (a very good year), in Carbondale, Pennsylvania. He was the son of Joseph Gonzalez and Josephine Grecco Gonzalez, the second of nine children. From an early age, Manny stood out for his vibrant personality and natural charm, earning the title of Best Dancer (and claimed he should’ve also won best dressed) at Benjamin Franklin High School — early signs of the confidence, style, and joy he would carry throughout his life.

Manny proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, traveling extensively during his service, including time aboard the USS Intrepid. His commitment to excellence extended far beyond his military years into a lifelong dedication to education, scholarship, and service.

He graduated from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, earned a Master’s degree from the University of Maryland, and completed his Ph.D. at Pennsylvania State University.

Manny met Marilyn Rink in college — the fortunate blending of two different backgrounds. They married in 1966 and shared more than 60 years of deep devotion, resilience, and worldwide adventures. In 1975, they moved from their East Coast roots to Salt Lake City, Utah, where they raised their family and built a life centered on love, learning, and connection.

For many years, Dr. Gunne was a professor at the University of Utah, inspiring countless graduate students in higher education and administration. Later in his career, he shared his expertise globally as a consultant with Shipley Associates and FranklinCovey, specializing in technical and scientific writing for Fortune 500 companies around the world. In retirement, he volunteered his time and talents at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic School, where his grandchildren attended.

Manny was an active, engaged, and compassionate father who instilled in his children the importance of family, education, travel, and embracing diverse experiences. He shared a special bond with his son, Todd, rooted in their love of movies and vintage cars. Together, they had begun writing a book chronicling Manny’s childhood and Italian upbringing. He also shared a unique and profound connection with his daughter, Melanie, fostering in her a love for writing well, critical thinking, spirited debate, and deep dialogue. His love and unconditional support were constant sources of comfort.

A lifelong scholar, Manny possessed a keen intellect and deep respect for the transformative power of higher education. His works were published, and he spent countless hours reading, researching, and writing — always seeking to expand his understanding of the world.

Crusher adored and doted on his four grandchildren and was endlessly proud of their achievements. His devotion to family was unwavering, and his generosity extended to many charitable causes throughout his life.

A devoted fan of Penn State Nittany Lions football, (and PSU tennis, when his daughter was a Lady Lion) he carried pride for his alma mater wherever he went.

Accomplished in every sense, Manny was defined by his unconditional love, generosity, and loyalty to family and friends. He traveled to the East Coast hundreds of times over the years to stay closely connected to relatives, cherishing summers in Ocean City, New Jersey. There, he could often be found biking along the boardwalk, relaxing on the Surf Road beach with loved ones and a good book, savoring butter pecan ice cream, or cruising through town in his beloved 1955 Chevy convertible — a car as timeless and spirited as he was.

He loved to sing and dance to the music of Frank Sinatra, whose voice was playing when he took his final breaths.

In his later years, Manny faced significant physical health challenges as well as an eight year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Watching such intellect, articulation, and eloquence gradually taken by Alzheimer’s was profoundly devastating for those who loved him. Yet this tough former Marine rarely complained and remained gracious through it all.

His devoted wife, Marilyn, was his steadfast caregiver, ensuring that his final years — and final moments — were spent at home, surrounded by family and love. Though Alzheimer’s stole memories, thoughts, and words, Manny never stopped expressing gratitude. Even in his final days, he repeatedly told his loved ones how much he loved and appreciated them — always grateful, always honorable.

Manny is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn Gunne; his daughter, Melanie Gunne Keller (J.D. Keller); and his cherished grandchildren, Anna Keller, Austin Keller, Ava Keller, and Delaney Gunne. He is also survived by his brothers John Gonzalez, Rudie Gonzalez, and Vincent Gonzalez; his loving sisters Ann Christine Kulick and Rose Gonzalez; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Joseph Gonzalez and Patrick Gonzalez; his sister Teresa Caviston; his niece Kaleigh Diehl; and his nephew Jason Gonzalez. He was devastatingly predeceased by his beloved son, Todd C. Gunne, and his nephew Barry S. White, who was truly an extension of the family.

Deep gratitude is extended to dear friends and special family members whose loyalty never wavered. The family also thanks the extraordinary in-home caregivers who brought strength, compassion, and support over the past five years.

“Regrets, I’ve had a few

But then again, too few to mention…

I did what I had to do

And saw it through without exemption…

And more, much more than this,

I did it my way”

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026 from 6:00 until 8:00 PM at Starks Funeral Parlor, 3651 South 900 East, Salt Lake City, Utah. Guests are encouraged to park and enter on the north side of building. Friends and family are welcome to join us for small bites, wine, live music, and shared memories. A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 28, 2026, also at Starks Funeral Parlor, where friends may visit with the family one hour prior to the service. The Funeral Service on Saturday, will be live streamed. Return to this page right before the service and there will be a “Watch Service” button to watch live or at a later time.

Interment will take place at a later date at Arlington National Cemetery, honoring a life of service, scholarship, generosity, and enduring love.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation.