Gary was born January 27, 1949, in Springfield, IL, the son of Fabian J and Marilyn Welge Seelbach. He married Michele Martin on June 28, 1975, in Honey Bend, Illinois.
He graduated from Girard Community High School in 1967 and earned his bachelor’s degree at Blackburn College. He then went on to earn his master’s degree at the University of Illinois. Gary worked for the State of Illinois Department of Mental Health for 15 years and Community & Residential Services Authority as an Executive Director for 18 years. He also volunteered at CRSA and Contact Ministries. Gary enjoyed spending time with grandchildren, home improvements, yard care, golfing, bowling, and storytelling.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Jenna Seelbach; and grandchildren Emma and Warren Samson.
Gary is survived by his wife, Michele Seelbach of Springfield; daughters Angela (Mike) Agnich and Sadie (Karl) Samson; son-in-law Shawn Darr; four grandchildren, Macie Agnich, Ashlyn Agnich, Andrew Samson, and Max Samson; siblings, Eugene Seelbach, Virginia Bensch, Gale Harms, Gwen Jennings, Gloria Gietl, Geri Adams, and Geoff Seelbach; one uncle; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Cremation will be provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies.
Memorial Ceremony: 2:00pm on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at Butler Funeral Home - Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating.
Burial will be held at Rochester Cemetery at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to HSHS Foundation for Jenna M. Seelbach at St. Johns College of Nursing.
