Günther Behrends

Günther Behrends, 91, of Farmington, formerly of Danbury, passed away after a life well-lived on Thursday, December 11, 2025. He is now reunited with his devoted wife of 50 years, Rosemarie (Recke) Behrends, who predeceased him in 2012 shortly after celebrating their milestone anniversary.

Born on April 29, 1934, son to the late Otto and Eva (Nitsch) Behrends in Königsberg, Germany, Günther's life spanned a remarkable journey marked by resilience and courage. His childhood was spent in the shadow of World War II, where he faced profound challenges that shaped the man he would become. Throughout the years, he shared his remarkable life experiences and brilliant mind with his family, imparting wisdom and inspiring ambition. He lived his life in a big way with a big personality and a work hard, play hard lifestyle. He was always the life of the party with stories and humor, living every day to the fullest.

Günther emigrated from Germany to Canada alongside his best friend and brother-in-law, Elmar, forging a path that would forever change his life. It was in Canada where he began to build the foundation for the life he would share with Rosemarie. They came to the US together, married on March 31, 1962 in Conshohocken, PA, where they bought their very first home. After a few other moves, they settled in Danbury, CT, where they raised their daughter, Anke. Together they created a warm and nurturing home filled with laughter, joy, and several dogs and cats. His favorite place was the cottage he bought and updated on Candlewood Lake, where he spent most weekends and summers entertaining friends and family. There he could be found sailing, boating, swimming, or fixing anything and everything MacGyver style.

Günther dedicated his life to his passion for engineering, founding and operating his own company, Stel-Tek Engineering, Ltd, spanning from Danbury, CT to Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada. Throughout his illustrious career, he earned a reputation for his expertise and creativity, contributing significantly to the field with his remarkable designs and solutions. He earned several U.S. patents related to continuous casting technology. He was well respected in the steel industry, and gave opportunities to others to get their own start in the business.

Günther's journey was not one he navigated alone; he was deeply supported by his wife, who was his partner in both work and life. Together, they made a great life for their daughter and traveled all over the world, enjoying a well-deserved retirement after the sale of the company in 1999. In retirement, they continued their travels and savored more quality time with their daughter and grandchildren.

Günther moved to Farmington 6 years ago to be closer to his daughter and her family. They enjoyed many little day adventures and just spending time together looking at old photos, reading, taking walks, and enjoying nature. At his independent living facility, he attended the weekly Bible studies and all the concerts, where he would often be heard singing along loudly. The staff affectionately referred to him as “The King” for his big presence and his spirit. The last few years he had two amazing aides, Evans and more recently Augie, who were such a blessing to him and really became a part of the family. We will forever be grateful for their care and companionship.

Günther is survived by his devoted daughter, Anke Behrends-Cooke and her husband, Adam, of Plainville, and two grandsons, Gavin and Nolan Cooke, of whom he was extremely proud. He is also survived by his brother-in-law and best friend, Elmar Brandis, of Wappingers Falls, NY, and several wonderful nieces and nephews, Dirk (spouse Josie), Kristin (spouse Dan), Thomas (spouse Michelle) and Hans. He thoroughly enjoyed time with his two granddogs: recent rescue Jack, but most of all Eli, who was always his “protector” and never left his side when he visited. Günther was predeceased by his two sisters, Ursula and Sigrid. He will be very missed by many.

Family and friends are welcome to gather on Monday, December 22, 2025 from 4 to 6 PM at Plainville Funeral Home, 81 Broad Street, Plainville. Prayers with words of remembrance from family will be shared at 5:30 PM at the funeral home. Günther will be laid to rest next to his wife, Rosemarie, at Wappingers Falls Rural Cemetery in New York at a later date. To honor Günther’s love for animals, in lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Spotty Dog Rescue, Inc, PO Box 2741, Bristol, CT 06010 (spottydogrescue.org) or to any local animal rescue or shelter of the donor’s choice. For more information or to leave online expressions of sympathy, please visit www.PlainvilleFuneralHome.com.

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