MAJ. Erwin Charles Gutzwiller, III, Retired US Army, 82, of Lillington passed away Sunday, November 24, 2024, at his home. He was born in Toledo, OH and spent his formative years in New Jersey.  Erwin was preceded in death by his parents, Erwin Charles Gutzwiller, Jr. and Evelyn Hublitz Gutzwiller VanArsdale, as well as his brother, William James Gutzwiller.

Erwin served 24 years in the United States Army. During his distinguished military career which included two tours of Vietnam as an Army Aviator, he was awarded numerous prestigious medals and awards for his heroism and meritorious service including two Bronze Stars and the distinguished Flying Cross for valor in combat.  He worked as an ombudsman with ESGR educating soldiers of their rights when called for duty. Erwin volunteered with many organizations over the years, including the American Red Cross and the Vietnam Veterans Association. He will be remembered for his strong Christian faith, love of his family and country.

Erwin is survived by his wife, Peggy Eskut Gutzwiller of the home; son, Charles Gutzwiller and wife Deanna of Alabama, daughter, Bonnie Lewis and husband John of Alabama; step-daughters, Lisa Hopkins and husband Rick of Garner, Adrienne Burliuk of Fayetteville, Elizabeth Nichols and husband Jamie of Kentucky; grandchildren, Dewey and Khloe Gutzwiller, Nicole, Hannah, Gabriella and Madison Lewis, Andrew,  Alexander and Aubrey Hopkins, MacKenzie Armstrong and Hailey Burliuk, Jacob and Harper Nichols; brother, Jeffery Gutzwiller of New Jersey, sister, Lorie Gutzwiller of Virginia.

A memorial service with military honors will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at Coats Community Church with Pastor Chuck Jones officiating. The family will receive friends after the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Coats Community Church, 275 N McKinley St., Coats, NC 27521.