Born June 10, 1944 in Peoria to Charles and Ethel (Ericson) Church, he married Barbara Cripe on June 26, 1965. She survives.
Also surviving are two sons, Scott and Tim (Paula) Church, both of East Peoria and five grandchildren, Matthew, Michael, Elizabeth, William and Margaret.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; one brother and one daughter-in-law, Jeannie Church.
Gary graduated from East Peoria Community High School in 1962 and attended Midstate College. He worked at Miller Hardware retiring in 1991.
He enjoyed the annual family trip to St. George Island, Florida for 18 years. He also followed his grandchildren’s activities and was extremely proud of their achievements in East Peoria High and SIUC Cross Country and track meets, Peoria Ballet Nutcracker performances and figure skating competitions.
Gary was a member of the First United Methodist Church of East Peoria for 52 years and a past board member of East Peoria Community Baseball.
Cremation has been accorded by Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Creve Coeur. A burial of cremated remains will be held at a later date at Fondulac Cemetery in East Peoria. Per Gary’s wishes there will be no services.
Memorial contributions may be made to East Peoria District #86 Foundation, 601 Taylor St. East Peoria, IL 61611 or Illinois CancerCare Foundation, 8940 N. Wood Sage Rd. Peoria, IL 61615 or to First United Methodist Church of East Peoria, 154 E. Washington St. East Peoria, IL 61611.
To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com
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