Memorial trees planted for:

Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens

Ret. U.S. Army Lt. Col. Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens, age 64, of Leavenworth, KS, passed away on the evening of 22 May 2025 in the loving presence of his wife, Sara. Popularly known as “Benny,” he is survived by his wife, Sara; his children, Brad (Nicci), Amy (Derek) and Josh; his two grandchildren, Hayes and Alice; his stepdaughter, Morgan; brother, Jim; and sister, Judy. Benny was born on 18 June 1960, in Cincinnati, OH, a son of the late Raymond and Jeanne (Klonne) Gudmens. He grew up in the neighborhood of Mt. Lookout, attending Summit Country Day School and Purcell High School. Still in his youth, Benny discovered an early love for history, as well as developed a lifelong devotion as a fan of the Cincinnati Reds and Bengals. Following his graduation from the University of Dayton as an ROTC cadet, Benny was commissioned into the US Army. His first assignment to the 82nd Airborne Division created a permanent zeal for all things airborne. Benny carried this advocacy into his subsequent assignments to Alaska, Washington, Arkansas, Louisiana, North Carolina, Saudi Arabia and Kansas. Benny’s passion for history led him to become an instructor and author in the Center for Military History at Fort Leavenworth. He developed and led multiple staff ride exercises across the globe, including at Pearl Harbor and Normandy. Benny enjoyed living in Kansas where he mastered entertaining, demonstrating his culinary skills, supporting the fine arts, trying new restaurants and cheering on the Wildcats, Royals, T-Bones and Chiefs. He and his wife Sara built a reputation as gracious hosts, frequently welcoming friends and coworkers to experience the artistry of Benny’s cooking. He made lasting friends wherever he worked and lived. His quick wit, devotion to duty, sincerity, integrity and humorous anecdotes fostered genuine connections among people in virtually every setting -- professional and personal, public and private, at home and in warzones. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, June 12, 2025, at Immaculate Conception Church, in Leavenworth, KS. A private burial will be at a later date. Those wishing to honor Benny’s memory are invited to contribute to Leavenworth Catholic Charities, Feeding America or a local food pantry of their choice. Condolences may be sent to R.L. Leintz Funeral Home.

June 18, 1960 - May 22, 2025

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16 Trees have been planted in memory of Jeffrey Gudmens.

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Memorial Trees

Heather, Denise and Doug

June 11, 2025

The planting of 3 memorial trees in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Heather, Denise and Doug. Plant a tree

Dear Sara and Morgan, we are so sorry for your loss. May God take you into his arms and provide comfort and love. You are very special, love always.

Sarah Hoffmann

June 11, 2025

The planting of 5 memorial trees in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Sarah Hoffmann. Plant a tree

I will miss you Benny! I hope this grove of trees will bring you some solace, Sara. Much love, Sarah H

Blake, Hannah, and Noa Holovach

June 11, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Blake, Hannah, and Noa Holovach. Plant a tree

May the Lord comfort your family in this time of sorrow. We are lifting you up in prayer.

Wes Farmer

June 10, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Wes Farmer. Plant a tree

I'll miss you brother. Airborne All the Way.

Love, Susan Massey, Kayla, Josh and family

June 08, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Love, Susan Massey, Kayla, Josh and family. Plant a tree

Our deepest condolences Sara and family

Dave Fries

June 06, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Dave Fries. Plant a tree

My sincere condolences to Benny's family. Benny was a fun loving member of a group of goofy Cincinnati friends. Celebrate one of the good guys!

Anonymous

June 05, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

Our thoughts & prayers are with you. God Bless you all. Sincerely, The Immel family.

Anonymous

May 29, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Anonymous. Plant a tree

For Benny. A great Friend. Curt

Orley Johns and Doreen Barnett

May 29, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Orley Johns and Doreen Barnett. Plant a tree

Forever in our hearts.

Jess Berube

May 27, 2025

The planting of 1 memorial tree in the honor of Jeffrey Joseph Gudmens has been arranged by Jess Berube. Plant a tree

Benny you are so loved. Morgan will continue to tell me all the wonderful stories of your life. May you rest in the sweetest peace.