Gary A. Gress, a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on June 24th, 2025, at the age of 79. Gary was born on May 13th, 1946, in Hardin (Calhoun County) Illinois. He was the son of Bud and Helen Gress, who also gave him a younger brother Dewain with whom he made many fond memories.
Gary married the love of his life, Mary Ann (Coughlin) Gress on June 20th, 1964. Together they built a beautiful life that he dedicated to his family. Their marriage lasted 61 years, during which time they a raised a wonderful daughter, Kim (Lonnie) Clowers, grandson Cole (Jamie) Sibley and great-grandson Lucas Garrett Sibley, who Gary was thrilled to spend time with. He had a very close relationship with his brother Dewain (Diane). Dewain gave the family two sons, Tony (Traci) Gress and Jeff (Amanda) Gress and their two daughters Stella and Lola in addition to many other nieces and nephews.
Gary worked as a pipe fitter for the Amoco refinery, while also owning a welding shop in his hometown of Hardin. He was also trained at autobody repair and completed many side jobs for friends when he could manage the time. Despite the long hours he worked, he always made time to enjoy life and pursue the hobbies he loved. His work ethic was unparalleled. He was a lifelong baseball fan and went on to coach several generations of both baseball and softball players. He was an avid tournament bass angler, where he fished from his beloved Ranger boats. He loved anything fast, as he also enjoyed bracket racing his jet drive drag boats. He also had a deep passion for turkey and waterfowl hunting, along with competitive trap shooting. He was unsurpassed regarding in his commitment and passion for the things he loved, and he prioritized passing on the things he held dearly to those he cared about. He made a positive and unforgettable impact on the many lives he touched. He was honest, sometimes to a fault. He had no reservations in telling anyone exactly what was on his mind.
What he cared about the most was his family, and those close to him. He was an excellent leadership figure and an even better friend. He made an impact on many people throughout his years. He was loved unconditionally and will be missed by many.
Those preceding him in death are his father Arthur “Bud” Gress, his Mother-in-Law Julia Coughlin, Father-in-Law Harry Coughlin, and Granddaughter Megan Ann Sibley.
The Gress family is grateful for the outpouring of love and support.
Visitation will take place Sunday, June 29, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Gress, Kallal, and Schaaf Funeral Home in Hardin, IL.
Funeral Mass will be Monday, June 30, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Norbert’s Catholic Church.
Burial will follow at St. Norbert’s Cemetery.
Memorials can be made out to the Calhoun Ambulance or St. Anselm’s Church Fund.
Online condolences can be made at www.kallalandschaaf.com.
