Leon Donald (Don) Gschwind's Obituary
Leon Donald (Don) Gschwind, age 89, of Harbor Springs, formerly of Bloomfield Hills, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on October 21, 2022. He was born in Youngstown, Ohio on July 3, 1933 to the late Mark Leon Gschwind and Esther Lillian Wauschek. Don was a graduate of Cuyahoga Falls High School. He went on to Case Western Reserve and received his degree in engineering, participating in ROTC. Following college, Don proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. After being honorably discharged, Don went on to begin his career at Chrysler Corporation. Don started at Chrysler as an engineer. While working, he received his MBA from Michigan State University. Through hard work and dedication, Don continued to move up the ranks, retiring as Executive Vice President of Product Planning after 33 years of service. During his employment at Chrysler, Don met and married the love of his life, Eleanor “Ellie” Tyken on May 27, 1961. The couple have been happily married for 61 years. When he wasn’t working, Don enjoyed airplanes, shooting sports, and automobiles. These started as hobbies that he learned at a young age, but they became his passion throughout his life. Don was an avid hunter and marksmen, competing in NRA rifle matches across the country; obtaining numerous 1st place trophies. Later in life he picked up skeet shooting, proudly making a perfect 25 on several occasions. He also enjoyed playing tennis with Ellie. Above all, Don cherished the time he spent with family. He loved going on family camping trips and skiing vacations.
He is survived by his wife, Ellie Gschwind; children, Sandra (Chip) Gschwind- Gauss, Kurt (Sheila) Gschwind; Popop to, Chipper (fiancé Emma Kosko) Gauss, Mark Gschwind, Chris Gschwind, Chrissy Gauss, and Steven Gschwind.
A celebration of life will take place on Friday, December 23rd at Young Funeral Home from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. with a memorial service at 2:00 p.m. Military honors will also be conducted. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to Blue Water Hospice or the American Alzheimer's Association. To leave a message of comfort visit www.youngcolonial.com
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