Gutsche

David R. Gutsche, 65, died March 11, 2013, at his home in Windsor.

He was born July 24, 1947, in Bismarck N.D., to Reuben and Laura Gutsche. He lived in Windsor with his partner of 20 years, Cheryl Johnson.

David graduated from Hazen High School in Hazen, N.D., in 1965. He received his bachelor’s degree in political science from Colorado State University in 1993, and his master’s degree in design, merchandising and consumer sciences from CSU in 1996.

Mr. Gutsche was the owner of Pack An Mail, a mail and packaging store located in Fort Collins in the Raintree Plaza at Drake and Shields. While growing up, he worked in all areas of his family’s dairy. After working in Bismarck, N.D. for a few years, he returned to the family farm as a farmer until he opened a jewelry store, Diamond G Jewelers.

In 1988, he moved to Fort Collins to attend CSU. His master’s thesis centered on collecting and marketing baseball cards. He then started an online book business specializing in rare and collectible books, and also a business focused on antiques. He had a particular interest in antique glassware.

A few years ago, he purchased the family farm and enjoyed being back in the farming business. He had hoped to return to North Dakota and participate more actively in farming after retirement.

David was a longtime member of the English Lutheran Church in Hazen and attended Bethel Lutheran Church in Windsor.

He is survived by his parents, Reuben and Laura Gutsche of Hazen, N.D.; daughter Hether (Guy) Haefner of Bismarck, N.D.; brother, Dwight G. (Brenda) Gutsche of Fort Collins; and four grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by a brother, Craig Gutsche.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, at Christ United Methodist Church, 301 E. Drake Road, Fort Collins.

Memorial Contributions may be made in David’s name to Marks Funeral & Cremation Service, 9293 Eastman Park Dr., Windsor, 80550. Online condolences may be made at www.marksfuneralservice.com.