David Gunlach died suddenly last October, leaving quite a bit of money behind. One hundred and twenty five million dollars.
"The $125 million calculation would be the most conservative, estimate of the size of his actual gift," says president of the Elkhart County Community Foundation, Pete McCown.
Gunlach had multiple homes and titles were handed over to the Elkhart County Community Foundation as well. Some may wonder: Why Elkhart? McCown says Gunlach knew the people here.
"He knew many people in this community and quite a few people on our board, which is why I think he trusted the people he was giving his money through."
Others who knew him well aren't surprised he wanted to give back to the community that he grew up in.
"His mom will tell you, he was happiest when he was here in Elkhart," says Liz Naquin Borger, executor of estate.
His mother, Marjorie Swift, had no idea he was this wealthy.
"I knew he was taking care of himself and not borrowing from me, but I had no idea he was that successful. I was as shocked as anybody else, truly."
Gunlach grew up in Elkhart and attended Elkhart Memorial High School before going to college in California.
After graduation, he found success in the insurance business all around the world and Liz Naquin Borger says Elkhart lead to that success. "I'm not surprised he brought it back to Elkhart, this is where he learned entrepreneurship and he lived and breathed entrepreneurship."
When Gunlach placed the foundation in his will, McCown said he allowed them to decide where money would go. "He kinda patted me on the shoulder and said, 'Kiddo, as I understand the Elkhart County Community Foundation exists to do good in my hometown. It seems to me your board and you are better qualified to make these decisions than I am."
Gunlach's death was tragic and unexpected.
"I miss him terribly, there's no two ways about it, always will," says his mother.
But what he leaves behind, will change Elkhart County.
