Dwayne Madison Gentsch's Obituary
Dwayne Madison Gentsch of Garland died July 26, 2018, at Baylor University Medical Center. Born in Gilmer, Texas, he was known for his commitment to his many civic organizations, his abundant generosity, and his love of family and friends. Dwayne graduated from Gladewater High School and Baylor University where he was a member of the Air Force ROTC. After college, he joined the Air Force and eventually served as the commanding officer of the Intelligence Unit stationed in Germany. Later, Dwayne received his Master of Education at East Texas State College. He taught in the Garland Independent School District before becoming a Chartered Senior Financial Planner. He served on the Garland City Council as a Member at Large for several years. Dwayne had a passion for service and loved giving back to his community. He was a member of the Garland and Duck Creek Masonic Lodges for over 50 years. He participated in many activities with the Garland Scottish Rite Club serving as President, Director, and Trustee. Never one to sit still for too long, Dwayne was also a member of the Kiwanis Club of Garland for over 60 years. During that time he served as President, was Kiwanian of the Year, and was a Life Member of Kiwanis International and the Texas Oklahoma District. Other associations he enjoyed being a part of were Gideons, Garland Symphony where he served as a board member, North Texas Crime Commission, and FBI Dallas Citizens Academy Alumni Association. He was an active member of First Baptist Church Garland for over 60 years teaching Sunday School and serving on the Board of Deacons.Dwayne was preceded in death by his parents, Homer and Lorene Gentsch, his brothers, Donald and Wayne, and his wife of 53 years, Katharine. He is survived by his fiancé Judy Cowan; his children Brent Gentsch, Susan Gharis and her husband Bill, Kara Durbin and her husband Tim, and daughter-in-law Kay Gentsch. He is also survived by his seven grandchildren, Katharine and Abby Gentsch; Will, Caroline, and Daniel Gharis; Kalli and Jake Durbin; and sisters-in-law Dolores Gentsch of Longview and Diane Keoun.A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, July 28, in the sanctuary at First Baptist Church in Garland with a reception following. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Gideons International (https://www2.gideons.org/donate).
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