William Leroy Gsell
February 15, 1931 ~ July 23, 2006
Resided in:
Arden, NC
Asheville Butterfly Trail
Arden ~ William Leroy Gsell of the Ardenwoods Retirement Community, passed away on Sunday, July 23, 2006 at a local hospital.
He was born in Janesville, Wisconsin on February 15, 1931 and was the son of the late Howard Leroy Gsell and Olwen Rachel Williams Gsell. He worked as an oceanographer for the US Government for 45 years. He was a US Marine Veteran of the Korean War and a member of the Faith Fellowship Church at Arden woods.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Gudrun Leonhard Gsell of Arden; two daughters, Christin Traini and Constance Simon both of Washington, D.C.; a son, Eric Brian Gsell of Watertown, MA; and two grandchildren, Teresa and Bryan Traini.
A private family memorial service will be held at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian on Long Shoals Road.
Dear Mrs. Gsell, Christin, and family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have so many fond memories of growing up in New Carrollton and, in particular, memories of your family. I remember your husband and dad working on your enclosed porch. I remember him cutting the grass and painting the front porch. I remember watching The Wizard of Oz on your brand new color television set. I also remember accidentally unplugging the television while Mr. Gsell was watching a Sunday afternoon game (probably football). I still feel bad about that. I remember your husband and dad eating and enjoying my mom’s iced Christmas cookies. And, I remember him helping my mom haul one of my sisters to the emergency room one evening. I remember Mr. Gsell as a gentle man who kept busy; always working with his hands around the house. My prayer is that you find strength in God’s presence and find comfort from the love of family and friends during this difficult time. God Bless. Susan
I, too, am very sorry for your loss. I remember ‘Mr. Gsell’ as a very gentle, quiet man who was always willing to help out when asked. I remember being fascinated by the things he would pick up on his adventures, too, – like a giant whale tooth, I believe it was. My memories have faded with time but I will never forget he was kind man and a fine neighbor.
My one regret is that I didn’t get to know him or you, Mrs. Gsell, as well as I might have as I was so young at the time. I recently read your book and was very touched by a number of your stories. I also learned an interesting thing or two about Germany (I lived outside of Darmstadt for several wonderful years. Deutschland ist sehr schon!)
I wish you all the best.
Love,
Sandra (Edwards) Boul