Gary F. McElyea, 75, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully, Saturday, January 29, 2022 at OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. He was born January 19, 1947 in Boydsville, AR, the son of Clois and Edith (Moore) McElyea. Gary graduated from Guilford High School and went on to attend Rock Valley College. Gary married the love of his life, Denise Wallis on October 28, 1972 in Rockford. He was employed as a processing engineer at Modern Metals for many years. Gary enjoyed going to car shows and loved muscle cars. He liked to plan road trips and travel. Gary adored his grandchildren and was always there to support them in school functions or sporting events. Most of all, Gary loved his family and will be deeply missed.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Denise; daughters, Amy (Shane Hartje) Helms and Karen (Hector) Lara; grandchildren, Anthony, Joseph, Benjamin, Maxwell, Madison, Logan, Andrew and Zoey; great-grandson, Izak; sister, Char (Don) White; as well as beloved nieces and nephews.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff and hospitalist group of OSF St. Anthony Medical Center for their loving and compassionate care.
A visitation will be held from 9:00-10:00 a.m., Saturday, February 12, 2022 at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115. A funeral service will begin at 10:00 a.m., with Rev. Dean Parker officiating. Entombment in Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com for the McElyea family.
