GUNTHER John (Jack) Ferris Gunther, age 87, of New Milford, departed this life on Thursday, July 21, 2005, at New Milford Hospital. He was the husband of Mary Ellen Cronin Gunther. Mr. Gunther was born in New York City, on October 13, 1917, the son of the late Earle Carlyle and Emma Bessie Gay Ward. He was a World War II veteran, serving with the U.S. Marine Corps. He was a self-employed electrical contractor for more than 60 years, retiring in 2000. Jack was a member of St. Peter's Masonic Lodge 21, Pyramid Shriner Candlewood Club, and the Shrine Club. He was a 32nd degree Mason at St. Peter's Lodge. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. In addition to his wife of 39 years, he leaves to cherish his memories, a daughter, Linda Peterson of Monroe; two sons, David Gunther of Pisgah Forest, N.C. and William Buttery of Fairfield; stepchildren, Carole Richter, Norman Wilcox and Raymond Wilcox; grandchildren, Scott Peterson, Darrell Peterson, Jackie Candee, Kim Smith, Lyn Ann Clear, Dawn Richter, Alison Wilcox, Christine Wilcox, Jeremy Wilcox, Debbie Russell, Katherine Essency, Brian Gunther, Sean Gunther, Marc Harrison, Debra Bernard, Nicole Hunter; 26 great-grandchildren; and many friends. Funeral services will take place on Monday, July 25, at 10 a.m., in the Lillis Funeral Home, 58 Bridge Street, New Milford. Burial will follow in Center Cemetery, New Milford. Friends may call in the Lillis Funeral Home on Sunday, from 6 to 8 p.m. Contributions in his memory may be made to the Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.