Gary D. Schwandt, 83, passed away peacefully at 9:20 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026, surrounded by compassionate care at Avina Nursing Home and under the devoted support of hospice.
Gary was born on April 14, 1942, at St. Agnes Hospital in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, to Everett and Virginia (Derge) Schwandt. He grew up on the family farm near Iron Ridge, Wisconsin, alongside his three brothers—Michael, Pastor Richard, and Morry—where he learned the values of hard work, faith, and family that would guide his life. While in high school, Gary played baseball, football, basketball, and trumpet in band, showing from an early age his love for teamwork, community, and joy in all he did. He graduated from Hustisford High School in 1960 and went on to attend Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, earning his bachelor’s degree in Education. He later received his master’s degree from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh.
On June 3, 1962, Gary married the love of his life, Sandra Groening, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Lebanon. They were blessed with more than 60 years of unconditional love and laughter. Together they shared two sons, Brian and Dave, and raised their boys to be strong of faith and love, just as Gary was.
Gary dedicated more than 50 years of his life to the Mayville Public School System, teaching junior high social studies and shaping generations of young people. For 34 of those years, he coached boys’ and girls’ basketball, football, and track. Over his coaching career, he led 39 basketball teams—14 girls’ teams and 25 boys’ teams—and spent seven years as a junior varsity boys’ basketball coach. He founded the junior high track program and the Saturday morning youth basketball league in Mayville, creating countless opportunities for children to grow not only in athletic ability, but in confidence, discipline, and character.
He also served 16 years as a bus driver and groundskeeper for the school district, often volunteering for the toughest routes—including field trips into the heart of Chicago and Milwaukee—always willing to step forward when something needed to be done.
Gary was a long-time coach of the St Paul Lutheran Church basketball team and faithfully taught Sunday school at St Paul Lutheran Church in Mayville. His greatest joy was helping young people develop to their fullest potential—academically, athletically, mentally, physically, and spiritually. His love for others was rooted in his deep love for the Lord. A humble and devoted servant-leader in the Mayville community, Gary followed in the footsteps of Jesus faithfully until the end of his earthly life. He and Sandy faithfully attended St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church.
Beyond his work and ministry, Gary treasured time with his family. He loved being on his knees playing with his grandchildren, fully present in their world. He enjoyed golfing with his sons, grandsons, and friends, cherishing the fellowship as much as the game itself. Another highlight of his life was traveling with Sandy and friends to attend polka dances, where laughter, music, and community filled the evenings.
Although he faithfully endured the devastating effects of Parkinson’s disease for ten years, Gary’s perspective remained grounded in Scripture. One of his favorite verses, 2 Corinthians 12:9, captured the strength by which he lived:
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. I gladly glory in my weaknesses and infirmities, that the strength and power of Christ may rest on me.”
Gary is survived by his beloved wife, Sandy; his sons, Brian (Jenny) of Fort Atkinson and Dave (Connie) of Merrill; his three brothers, Michael (Georgi) of Windsor, Pastor Richard (Jean) of Hickory, North Carolina, and Morry (Eileen) of Iron Ridge; five grandchildren: Haeli (Jon) Blatchley of Waupaca, Taylor (David) Carrizales of Fort Atkinson, Pastor Logan (Haley) Schwandt of Waupaca, Kaden Schwandt of Merrill, and Jake Schwandt of Merrill; and eight great-grandchildren—Livi, Brynn, and Wells Blatchley of Waupaca; Elsie, Lyla, and Rosalie Carrizales of Fort Atkinson; and Kiah and LJ Schwandt of Waupaca—with one more great-grandchild expected in March. He is further survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Everett and Virginia (Derge) Schwandt, and his grandparents.
Gary’s legacy lives on in the thousands of students, athletes, colleagues, friends, and family members whose lives were strengthened by his steady encouragement, servant heart, and unwavering faith.
All obituary information has been taken from the funeral home, newspaper or other online resource.
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