Gary R. Dirks

Gerhard “Gary” R. Dirks, 85, of Rockford, Il. Passed away peacefully May 14, 2021 while being comforted by his daughters. He was thankful for the 5 years of loving care he received from Kim, Wendy and his friend Evelyn. He was also thankful for care given by Jen, CNA, Rose, RN, and Val, NP of Hope Hospice and Bonnie of Senior Helpers.

Gary was Born December 27th, 1935 the son of Deidrich and Gertrud Dirks (Kaempfe). He was Honorably discharged from the Army in October 1964 and was known for his many, unique career choices over his lifetime: Grocery Store Owner, Butcher, Co-Founder of DunRite Cleaning services, Owner of Dirks Auto Glass and Chrysler Employee for 29 years, Security Guard and Owen Township Highway Crew.

He was happiest ‘working on’ cars with his lifelong friend Norm Taylor. In their younger years they built and drag raced cars, rode motorcycles and ‘hung out’ at Wafflers Gas Station. In retirement he loved spending time visiting friends and family and working on the Owen Township road and snow plowing crews.

Gary never met a stranger who did not become his friend nor a friend that he would not do any favor for. His silly sense of humor and ‘pop in’ visits have been and will continue to be missed by all who were graced by them.

He is survived by Daughters: Wendy (Scott) Irwin, Kim Dirks and ex-wife/friend Evelyn Dirks. Grandchildren Sydney Irwin (Arizona), Dylan Irwin (Rockford) and Sister Genevieve (Denzler) Hinman of California, Nieces and Nephews: Char (Fritsch) and Ray Ferguson, Bev (Fritsch) and Joe Lynde, Will Fritsch, Lance Dauenbaugh, Rick and Brian Denzler and many great nieces and nephews that he was close to. He was predeceased by his parents, sister Nora Dauenbaugh in 1969, Nephew Bryce “Buck” Dauenbaugh in 1990 and Sister Waltraut “Wallie” Fritsch in 2014

Private Burial will be in Willwood Cemetery. In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the family and will be used to support Automotive Education/Equipment for Auburn High School students in Gary’s name.