Elmer Gidewall

Elmer Erik Gidewall, 77, of Travelers Rest, SC, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, August 13, 2020. Elmer grew up in Worth, Illinois, and was the son of the late Erik G. Gidewall and Florence E. Gidewall. He received a Masters Degree in Health Sciences Administration from the Medical University of South Carolina in 1987. He served as Director of Environmental Services at Shriners Hospitals for Children for eighteen years. His home church was Christ Fellowship of Travelers Rest, 6440 Old Buncombe Road, Greenville, SC 29609. He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan and was proud of his Swedish heritage. He also served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War era. Elmer is survived by his wife of forty-six years, Mary Ann Gidewall; one daughter, Elizabeth Sizemore (Bobby); two sons Erik Gidewall, and Edward Gidewall (Jessica);one brother Kenneth Gidewall (Carolyn); and four beloved grandchildren. He was loved by many other relatives and friends whom he considered family. All his life Elmer was a man of deep faith in Christ. Recently he said, "The only thing that matters is having Jesus Christ as your Savior. Nothing else matters." He had a great sense of humor and instilled in his children and others the importance of having strong faith and a good work ethic. To celebrate Elmer's life, a memorial service will be held Saturday, August 22, 2020,at 2:00 P.M. at Christ Fellowship of Travelers Rest. Because of COVID-19, the family requests that anyone who wants to participate is welcome to view the service online.For the few attending, the family requests appropriate precautions and social distancing. The family would like to thank loved ones for the kindness, love, and prayers shared during this time. In lieu of flowers, please send a memorial gift to one of Elmer's favorite ministries: Christ Fellowship of Travelers Rest; (mailing address P. O. Box 1362, Travelers Rest, SC 29690) Kids Alive International, (2507 Cumberland Drive, P.O. Box 2117, Valparaiso, IN 46384-2117) Shriners Hospital for Children. (950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605) Salvation Army, (417 Rutherford Street, Greenville, SC 29609).

Elmer Gidewall

October 23, 1942 - August 13, 2020