Thomas Gundlach Obituary

Thomas Lee Gundlach

Nov 12, 1934 - Oct 26, 2024

Sandusky

Tom Gundlach, 89, of Sandusky, passed away peacefully Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at Providence Care Center.

He was born Nov. 12, 1934, in Sandusky, to Ruth and Leo Gundlach. Tom was baptized at St. Mary's Catholic Church and attended St. Mary Catholic Schools for 12 years.

Tom's youth was filled with adventure and responsibility. He worked at his parents' grocery store, where he fondly remembered delivering packages on a Cushman motor scooter with a sidecar. Family time at their cabin on Put-in-Bay sparked a love for sailing and Lyman boats. These early experiences shaped Tom's strong work ethic and deep appreciation for family and community, which would define his adult life.

In 1958, Tom met the love of his life, Mary Lou Fagginato, through the Catholic Council of Youth. They married in November, 1959, and built their family home with Tom's father, Leo. There, they raised their five children and created a life filled with love, family, and community involvement.

Tom served in U.S. Army from November, 1955, to November, 1957. His service included basic training at Ft. Carson, Colorado and Ft. Knox, Kentucky, followed by time in Yuma, Arizona and 13 months in Germany at The Second General Hospital in Landstuhl.

After his military service, Tom began a 36-year career with National Cash Register Co. (NCR), retiring March 1, 1994. He was known for his fastidious attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile, often earning recognition from his customers.

An avid amateur radio operator with the handle N8FMJ, Tom was a member of Amateur Radio Relay League and FARA (Fremont Amateur Radio Association). He was known for his efficiency and ingenuity, implementing many clever inventions around his home, a trait he passed on to his sons.

In retirement, Tom and Mary Lou enjoyed taking trips with dear friends, volunteering at St. Mary's, participating in Silver Sneakers, and spending time with family and friends.

Tom is survived by his wife of 64 years, Mary Lou Gundlach; five children, Amy (Rick) Ellis of Sandusky, Jim (Lori) Gundlach of Sheffield Village, Joel (Tina) Gundlach of Milan, Jack (Lisa) Gundlach of North Hampton, New Hampshire, and Jay (Marlene) Gundlach of New Albany; 12 grandchildren; one great-granddaughter; and siblings, David and Donna.

Tom's life was characterized by his dedication to family, innovative spirit, and service to his country and community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Memorial Mass will be 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 429 Central Ave., Sandusky. Private burial will take place at Oakland Cemetery with military rites.

Those wishing to contribute to Tom's memory may donate to St. Jude’s, St. Mary's Catholic Church, or Stein Hospice.

Toft Funeral Home & Crematory, 2001 Columbus Ave., Sandusky, is handling arrangements.

Condolences may be made to the family by visiting toftfuneralhome.com.