Wayne Gschwend

Wayne H. Gschwend, retired Air Force Master Sergeant and Civil Service Locksmith, passed away on June 25, 2023, at the age of 88 in Underwood, MN.

Wayne Henry Gschwend was born on July 31, 1934, in Pekin, IL, to Henry and Louise (Nack) Gschwend. Wayne led a dedicated life serving his country and community. Following high school, he joined the military as a jet engine mechanic in 1953 and served on active duty until 1973 when he retired after achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. Wayne was proud to be part of the Air Force, and he continued his patriotism throughout his whole life.

Wayne married Rose Marie Effhauser May 17, 1963, and had two children: Todd Wayne Gschwend and Pamela Louise (Gschwend) Holden. Rose passed away in August 1989.

Wayne married Marlys Corbit July 2, 1990, and Wayne welcomed three more children: Russell Mathues, Kelly Namie, and Kristi Mondry Fitzgerald.

Wayne also served as Commander of the American Legion for two years and was a part of the Honor Guard. He had a kind and patriotic spirit that inspired others. Apart from his service to his country and community, Wayne loved hunting and fishing with his family. He also lived on a lake for many years where he enjoyed spending quality time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Wayne is survived by his wife Marlys Gschwend; children: Todd Wayne Gschwend (Cheryl Finney) of Aurora, Colorado; Pamela Louise (Tim) Holden of Cascade, ID; Russell (Debbie) Mathues of Battle Lake, MN; Kelly Namie (Mike Lange) of Mesa, AZ; Kristi Mondry (John) Fitzgerald of Meridian, ID; grandchildren: Cody (Lisa) Mathues, Cole (Felicia) Mathues, Blake (Andrea) Mathues, Cory Holden, Marshall Mondry, Myranda Mondry, Tabitha (Benjamin) Maxwell, Hunter Holden, Teah (Joshua) Mitchell; and eight great-grandchildren.

The Gschwend Family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Bob Kersten for his overwhelming love and support through this difficult time.

The memory of Wayne's dedication to his country and love for his family will continue to inspire all those who knew him. May he rest in peace.