Vincent Gunn

Vincent "Vinnie" Gunn was a gentle soul, a quiet warrior, and a peaceful brother to many. On January 28, 2014, at the age of 23, he lost his long battle with cancer and died in his Chico home surrounded by his family. Vinnie was born on April 12, 1990 in Napa, CA to Ronald and Kathleen (Wheelan) Gunn. He lived his first ten years in Napa and attended St. Apollinaris School. In 2000, Vinnie and his family moved to Durham, CA where he attended the Durham schools. He graduated from Durham High School in 2008. As a percussionist in the school band for many years, he developed a love for music and taught himself to play guitar, mandolin, ukulele, and the didgeridoo. He was a talented artist and especially loved creating pieces with spray paint. Traveling, gardening and spending time outdoors, especially at the beach, and cheering for the San Francisco Giants were some of Vinnie's other loves. When Vinnie was 16, he became interested in Buddhism and eventually became a passionate follower of the Buddhist faith. He was deeply involved at the Sky Creek Darmha Center in Chico, CA. Through the Darmha Center, his family grew to include many loving friends who helped him to grow and learn and who were a tremendous support to him in this life. Throughout his life, Vinnie enjoyed immersing himself in new places and cultures. His favorite excursions included a family trip to Italy, retreats to The Tassajara Zen Mountain Center in Carmel Valley, an adventure to Burning Man, and many camping trips throughout Northern California. He had plans to travel to many other destinations, including Dharamsala, India. Vinnie was a beloved son, brother, uncle, and partner. He leaves behind his parents, Ron and Kathy Gunn; his sister and brother-in-law, Sara and Jeff Simmons; his brother, Oliver Gunn; his nephews, Owen and Griffin Simmons; and his long-time girlfriend, Taylor Malinowski. His grandparents and many aunts, uncles, and cousins were also an important part of his journey. His "Grammy," Rena Tennant, was influential in guiding him to a life of kindness, curiosity, and love. There was always room for more love in Vinnie's heart--If he knew you, you were part of his family. A celebration of Vinnie's life will be held on Saturday, February 1, at noon at Manzanita Place (Elks Lodge) at 1705 Manzanita Avenue in Chico. Online line condolences can be sent to BrusieFH.com Donations can be made in Vinnie's name to Sky Creek Dharma Center, 120 Three Oaks Court, Chico, CA 95973 or Enloe Hospice, 249 W. 6th Avenue, Chico, CA 95926. "Life is transient, swiftly passing."