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Gary E. Eischen
9/7/2023
Gary Eischen is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Martin and Edna Eischen, and his sole brother Martin “Ike” Eischen.
Gary served honorably in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Master Sergeant with many achievements and awards in the fields of flight engineering and aviation. He courageously served in the Vietnam War and his heroic actions earned him the Bronze Star for valor.
Gary was a naturally gifted man in many areas of his life. He was an extraordinary professional musician and master steel guitarist, pilot, an avid fisherman, a skilled craftsman, a model railroad enthusiast, and scuba diver just to name a few. He also had the mind of an engineer which was often reflected in his everyday routines and “procedures” as he would say.
He loved adventure, which was evident in all the beautiful places he chose to live. Whether it was on the beaches of Daytona Beach Florida, the Big Island of Hawaii, or the Sierra Nevada mountains in Northern California, he had a deep connection with each place God led him with such enthusiasm and promise. Gary also had a fondness and love for his dogs who often joined him on his adventures.
Gary’s most impactful attribute was his love for God, his family, and ordinary people. His unspoken ministry was to love everyone he met; the way Christ loved his children. He had an uncanny ability to connect with anyone and a special gift to bring out the very best in people which always left others feeling special, valued, and loved.
He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Charlene Eischen; son, Jason Eischen; daughters Kathy Briseno, Debbie Shaw (Ron), Terri Gilmore (Trent), and Sarah Watson (Cory). Also included are his grandchildren, whom he was so very proud of; Heidi, Roman (Jeni), Jonathan (Kailey), Jessica, Riley, Natalie, Taylor, Luke and Hannah as well as his great-grandchildren; Jaye, Ryder, Landon and Abigail. He also leaves behind his niece and nephew Gretchen Eischen and Eric (Lori) Eischen in addition to Gary’s many cherished friends.
The memorial and funeral service will be announced at a later date. Any donations can be made in Gary’s honor to the Wounded Warrior Project https://woundedwarriorproject.org.