Mark Gysan's Obituary
Mark Gysan, 65, of Toledo, Ohio, passed away on Tuesday, November 26th, peacefully in his daughter's home after a long battle with cancer. He was surrounded by the love of his granddaughter, daughter, son-in-law, and his furry companions.
Mark Gysan (1959-2024) was a loving, passionate, and kind individual who always put others before himself. As a father, papa, son, brother, uncle, coach, teacher and mentor he positively impacted many lives. He was born in Sandusky in 1959 to Gladine and Carl Gysan who were adoring, supportive and encouraging of their son’s free spirit and dreams. Mark attended Fremont High School and excelled in football which led him to play for Wooster University. After an injury, his time playing on the field was cut short but this did not end his time under the Friday night lights. Mark went on to study at Bowling Green University in the field of mathematics and psychology, which was the beginning of his journey as a beloved member of the Toledo community as a coach and teacher.
Mark is survived by a daughter, Elizabeth, who meant the world to him and whose relationship was truly one of a kind. He was a dedicated father who taught her how to have fun and play, and love unconditionally. He also has a granddaughter, Aubree, who brought so much joy to his world. His gentle soul loved her so dearly and he was such a big part of her life. His son-in-law, Jacob, is someone who he treasured and respected and considered him as his own. He was also survived by his sister, Rebecca, who recalls learning everything from him, even at a very young age, Mark was a teacher. He is also survived by his brother, Steve Gysan. And lastly, he was survived by his dogs, Bella and Josie, who he spoiled and loved to pieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Gary Gysan, and his special nephew, Shane Cataline.
Mark lived life to the fullest, loved sports, and his friends and family. He played and loved hard and taught those around him to do the same. He was a football coach for several years as well as a wrestling and track coach at Bowsher High School. Mr. Gysan also taught mathematics at Bowsher and mentored and coached kids to fulfill their potential and have fun while doing so. He was a talented coach and teacher and had a unique way to mentor those around him. In his retirement, he continued his work in education by coaching and mentoring teachers for an online academy. In his free time, he enjoyed watching sports with friends, walking his dogs, playing cornhole, and visiting his granddaughter. Mark had a playful spirit and heart of gold and he will be missed by many.
Mark’s wishes were for a Celebration of Life at Loma Linda Restaurant, 10400 Airport Hwy, Swanton, OH 43558. The celebration will take place on Saturday, January 11th from 3-6, as a “come as you can” eat, drink, and honor Mark as you knew him. (Mark, Mr. Gysan, Coach Gysan, Gys, Papa, and Dad)
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to: Big Brothers Big Sister of America ; The Humane Society; American Cancer Society; St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital; The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research; Or if you choose, donate to Elizabeth, towards a tree and/or rose bush to be planted at the Columbus Park of Roses in memory of her father.
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