Matthew G. Gard

Matthew was born on April 3, 1958 in Joliet, Illinois to Lorraine (Partak) Gard, who survives and to the late Leo H. Gard. Also preceding him in death are his brother-in-law, Jim Ikovic; sister-in-law Margaret Centifanto; nephew Ryan Centifanto; and his mother and father-in-law, Lucille and James Ikovic; maternal grandparents, Andrew and Cecilia Partak; paternal grandparents, William and Elizabeth Gard.

Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 35 years, Joan (Ikovic) Gard; children, Matthew J. (Ashley Hayhurst) Gard, Stephen J. (Jennifer) Gard, Nicholas A. (Rachel) Gard, Michael A. (Sam Gawlinski) Gard; grandchildren, Ava Gard and Lillian Gard, and an expecting grandson; siblings, Mary Lynn (Jim) Mishevich and Michael (Liz) Gard; sister-in-laws, Mary Anne (Harold) Shaw, Jean Gill and Michele (Frank) Traina; brother-in-laws John Ikovic and Dave (Betty) Centifanto; many nieces and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

He was a Highland High School graduate of 1976. Matthew worked for Strack and Van Til for over 40 years. He began as a utility clerk, and progressed through many positions, and managed multiple locations, and is currently the director of advertising. He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially camping, biking and hiking, and later in life, time with his grandchildren. Matthew was very active with his sons' sporting events, was an avid Blackhawks fan, and lover of extremely LOUD rock and roll. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend, and will be deeply missed. His memory will live on in our hearts forever.

Visitation will be Tuesday, March 14, 2017 from 3-8 pm at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home (8178 S. Cline Ave.; Schererville, IN 46375). Funeral services will be Wednesday, March 15 at 11:00 am at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home with Fr. Steve Kosinski officiating. Burial will be in Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens. Memorials may be given to the family for a charity to be determined at a later date. To leave online condolences, please visit www.chapellawnfunerals.com