In Loving Memory of Montana Lee Gunhus Waterloo, Iowa — October 15, 2025
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that the community of Waterloo, Iowa, mourns the tragic loss of Montana Lee Gunhus, age 39, who was fatally shot in the early morning hours of Wednesday, October 15, 2025. The heartbreaking incident occurred at a residence located at 3137 Hammond Avenue, where officers responding around 3:45 a.m. discovered two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite the swift arrival of emergency responders, Montana sadly succumbed to his injuries at the scene. A 28-year-old woman, who was also wounded, remains in critical condition as she fights for her life.
Montana’s passing has left a void that words can hardly fill. He was known to many as a kindhearted, loyal, and genuine soul who cared deeply for his family, friends, and community. Those who knew him best remember his unwavering sense of humor, his ability to lift others’ spirits even in difficult times, and his steadfast loyalty to those he loved. His compassion and warm-hearted nature made a lasting impression on everyone he met, leaving behind memories that will never fade.
Friends and relatives describe Montana as a hardworking individual who valued honesty and perseverance. He was the type of person who would lend a helping hand without hesitation and believed in standing by others through life’s storms. Whether sharing laughter with friends, offering words of comfort, or simply being present when someone needed support, Montana embodied the true meaning of friendship and love.
The news of his untimely passing has shaken the Waterloo community, bringing together loved ones, neighbors, and local residents in shared grief and reflection. Tributes have poured in on social media and in heartfelt conversations, as people recount moments that captured Montana’s vibrant spirit and kind heart. His family, devastated by this unimaginable loss, asks for privacy as they navigate this difficult time and plan to honor his life and memory.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and urge anyone with information to contact the Waterloo Police Department or Cedar Valley Crime Stoppers. The community remains hopeful that justice will be served, and that answers will bring some measure of peace to those mourning Montana’s death.
Though his life was cut tragically short, Montana Lee Gunhus’s legacy of kindness, resilience, and love will live on in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten — a light extinguished too soon, yet one that will continue to shine through the memories and love he left behind.
May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his loved ones find strength and comfort during this heartbreaking time.
