GARY JAMES GWIDT, Lieutenant Colonel, U.S. Army Reserves, retired

Retired U.S. Army Reserves Lt. Col. Gary James Gwidt passed away peacefully at Lawlis Family Hospice Center in Mequon in the early morning hours of October 10, 2025. He was 81 years old.

Born in Pulaski, Wisconsin, on August 29, 1944, to Adam and Ione (nee Moesch) Gwidt, Gary graduated from Pulaski High School in 1962 and continued his education at the University of Wisconsin, graduating from UW Madison in 1967. Shortly before his graduation, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he honorably served and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Following the September 11th terrorist attack, he was assigned to FEMA and subsequently to the Medical Service. In his civilian career, Gary dedicated over 30 years as an actuary with William M. Mercer, Ltd. (presently Marsh McLennan Agency), retiring in 2002.

On June 17, 1967, Gary married the love of his life, Kathryn Wittwer, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Madison. They resided in Arlington Heights, Illinois, where they started their family, before relocating to Mequon in 1980. Together, they enjoyed traveling the world, with a particular fondness for cruises. Gary was an avid golfer, and they regularly visited the Southern Pines area each spring and fall for golf outings. In recent years, he found immense joy in attending his grandchildren's various activities, always serving as their biggest cheerleader. Gary's decades-long volunteer career began in Arlington Heights with the Jaycees, leading him to the Mequon Thiensville Newcomers, Walter Schroeder YMCA, and eventually Crossroads Presbyterian Church.

Gary was a dedicated and active member of Crossroads Presbyterian Church in Mequon, where he was involved with the "Serving Him Every Day" (SHED) ministry, serving as an usher captain, and led various projects, including painting the manse. He was also a passionate contributor to the Milwaukee Habitat for Humanity for over 20 years, where his willing hands and extensive knowledge will be profoundly missed. Habitat for Humanity plans to dedicate their next build to him, naming it the "Gary Gwidt House." Additionally, Gary was instrumental in establishing the "5051st Unit," an organization that provided support to career military officers nearing retirement. He continued to attend monthly gatherings and always looked forward to their special holiday parties. More recently, Gary became a member of the Howard J. Schroeder American Legion Post 457 in Mequon.

Gary is survived by his beloved wife and best friend, Kathy, of Mequon; their sons, Mark (Kristen) Gwidt of Cedarburg and Kevin Gwidt of Port Washington; and his cherished grandchildren, Catherine, Brigid, Charles, and Sarah. He is further survived by his siblings Patricia Gwidt, Susan (Tom) Kapla, Tom (Patrice) Gwidt, Mike (Theresa) Gwidt, Tim Gwidt, and Steve (Lynn) Gwidt, brother-in-law, Jerry Wittwer (Elizabeth) as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other family members, and many friends. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, brother Dennis (Tracy Adams) Gwidt, sister Mary Lynn Gwidt, nephew Jeffrey Gwidt and brother- in-law Jerry Pawelczyk.

The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Puffer, Dr. Schultz, and Lawlis Family Hospice for the exceptional, compassionate, and kind care they provided to Gary and our family.

Gary was a generous soul and a beautiful spirit. His kindness, humility, and grace were truly exceptional and will be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Gary's Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, November 28th, at Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 6031 W. Chapel Hill Rd., Mequon, followed by Military Honors, food and fellowship. The family will receive guests at the church on Friday, November 28th, from 10:00 AM until services begin at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Gary's name may be directed to Habitat for Humanity or Crossroads Presbyterian Church.

The Eernisse Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements; online condolences may be left at www.eernissefuneralhome.com .