Alvin T. Guthertz
Alvin T. Guthertz, third generation San Franciscan and a well known public relations man, died peacefully with his son Eric after a routine doctor’s appointment on Tuesday, January 16. As a writer to the end, he wrote much of this obituary and made a note to say that “he died with a smile on his face”.
Friends might wish to remember him in their hearts for a “day or two”. And consider merely the good time which he shared with so many.
Guthertz, saw himself as a Bon Vivant, raconteur and humorist who traveled the world as a travel writer and wrote 8 novels. He owned a public relations firm for over 50 years and represented motion pictures and authors, as well as well known institutions like The Winchester Mystery House and events such as the Grand National Rodeo.
Guthertz has received numerous writing awards and honors; his favorite was the belt buckle presented to him by the rodeo cowboys after being gored by a bull. He was also a member the San Francisco Press Club, Broadcast Legends and sat on boards of the Press Club and San Francisco State University. He is a member of the Lebanon Masonic lodge and a former member of the CommonWealth Club.
Guthertz, a member of a pioneer family, was a native San Franciscan who lived in Marin County for over 60 years. He is survived by(in his words) Three incredible Children Jeff, Eric and Elisa. And by his grandchildren Asher and Eva Grace as well as two daughters in law, Lisa Hayden and Jennifer Selvin. His wife Vicki, who he described as Beautiful, extraordinary and fiery, died from a long term illness several years ago.
His hobbies were writing and telling stories. He loved chocolate pudding (WITHOUT LUMPS) and frozen peas that “popped in your mouth”, and always enjoyed a rare steak (one of the few things he could cook). He liked old movies, gangster films, musicals and swashbucklers. He loved Sinatra and Willie Nelson.
In the words of two of his movie favorites “Th-ThThat’s al folks.” And “Here’s looking at you kid!”
He will be missed and fondly remembered by family and friends.
The family asks that donations be made to the ACLU or Hospice By TheBay.