In the early morning hours of May 30th, 2023, the good Lord called his faithful servant,
Leon Gawlick, home to eternal rest. Born on August 12th, 1933 in Wilkes-Barre, PA, Leon
lived a full and blessed life of 89 years, before passing away peacefully in Greenville, SC. A
loving father, grandfather, partner, sibling and friend, Leon's memory will be cherished by
all who had the fortune of knowing him.
Leon was survived by his loving daughter Susan (Matthew) Merrick of Kenilworth, IL, his
caring sons Barry (Terri) Gawlick of Hamburg, NY, and Leon (Janet Childers) Gawlick of
Hurst, TX, as well as his grandchildren Ben Merrick, Arabelle Merrick, Shannon Gawlick
and Alexandria Bauer. Leon spent 25 special years with his late partner Barbara Kujawa.
He will also be remembered by his dear sister Carol Ann Gawlick of Wilkes-Barre, PA,
sister Mary Posukonis of Allentown, PA, brother Charles Gawlick of Allentown, PA, and is
preceded in death by his parents Mary and Leon and late brothers David and Norman.
In his professional life, Leon was a skilled contractor with the Carpenters Union in Buffalo,
NY. His commitment to his work was matched only by his dedication to his faith. An active
member of the Knights of Columbus, Leon proudly served as a 4th Degree Knight. His
faith was further exemplified through his membership at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church
in Greer, SC.
A man of many talents and interests, Leon was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping,
fishing, target shooting, hunting, and boating. His passion for the outdoors was matched
by his love for working with his hands. As a skilled carpenter, Leon built beautiful furniture
that will serve as a lasting testament to his craftsmanship. He took great pride in his home
and always had a home improvement project in the works.
Leon's presence was a blessing to those who knew him. During his retirement years in
Greer, he enjoyed a strong community of friends, neighbors and church fellowship. He will
be dearly missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts and minds of the lives he touched.
As we gather to remember Leon Gawlick, let us not mourn his passing, but celebrate the
life he lived and the love he shared. May Leon’s soul rest in the peace and joy of our Lord's
eternal embrace.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the National Audubon Society:
https://www.audubon.org