Gary Lee Adams, Sr.

He was born May 15, 1939 in Peoria to Charles and Mary Lou (Ripper) Adams. He married Carol Cole on February 11, 1961 in Peoria. She survives.

Also surviving are his sons Gary L., Jr. (Liane) Adams of Eureka, IL, Eric S. (Kimberly) Adams of Plainfield, IL; grandchildren Austin Scott Adams, Taylor Nicole Adams, Branden Lee Adams, and Alexandra Joyce Adams; one brother Richard W. Adams; one sister Pat Stockman; sister-in-law, Hettie Taylor Lefkowitz (Larry); brother-in-law, William (Ruby) Taylor; one Aunt; and several Nieces, Nephews, and Cousins.

He was preceded in death by his favorite Uncle Bob “Pop” Adams.

Gary served in the United States Air Force from 1956 to 1960. He was honorably discharged at the rank of Airman 2nd Class.

After serving his country he was employed with several companies including Monroe Office Machines, Amalgamated Meat Cutters, and was a lifelong member of the Teamsters Local #627. Gary last worked for Associated Truck Lines retiring in 1989.

Gary was involved in many business ventures including Carol’s House of Ceramics, Illini Sport Print, CJ’s Shirt Factory, DavGar Industries, Heartland Candle Factory, Adams Property Management, and Lake Wildwood Association.

He enjoyed everything outdoors, fishing, boating, water skiing, and gardening. He became a master gardener in 1994 and shared his love of gardening with others.

The happiest time of his life was the time spent with his four grandchildren. Gary was a humble, honorable, hard working, man who will be missed by all.

Funeral Services will be 1 P.M., Saturday, October 9, 2010 at Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home. Father Tom Mizeur will officiate. Visitation will be from 11 A.M. to 1 P.M. on Saturday at the Funeral Home. Burial will be in Swan Lake Memory Gardens.

Memorials may be made to OSF Hospice.

Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.woolsey-wilton.com.