Gary Lee Terviel

Gary Lee Terviel, 79, of Machesney Park, IL, passed away on August 26, 2023, after a long illness. Born to Harold and Lorraine Terviel on May 21, 1944, in Monroe Center, IL, Gary was raised in Davis Junction. As a young man, he had a passion for riding horses and graduated from Stillman Valley High School in 1962. Upon graduation, Gary served in the U.S. Army for two years. He married Linda, the love of his life, on September 23, 1967 at the Church By The Side Of The Road in Rockton, IL and together they made their home in Loves Park, IL. Following his military service, Gary embarked on a successful career as a machinist at Rockford Powertrain, where he dedicated 38 years of his life.

When not working, Gary enjoyed spending his weekends at the camper in Wisconsin, indulging in his favorite hobbies of fishing and boating. He also enjoyed league bowling, the love of which he passed on to his grandson, Braden, which culminated in a national bowling championship title in 2022. Gary was a talented do-it-yourselfer who dedicated much of his time to building furniture, expanding and renovating his home, and assisting others with their own projects, though it nearly led to the loss of his thumb. He loved playing cards, games, and doing puzzles in his spare time. Gary also had many canine companions over the years that he claimed to barely tolerate but secretly adored.

Gary will be remembered for his endless patience, kindness, and love for his family. He was a hard worker, great provider, devoted husband, doting father, and the best Papa his four lucky grandchildren could ask for. He never passed up an opportunity to hold his children and grandchildren, read to them, play with them, and was exceedingly proud of all their accomplishments.

Gary leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife of 55 years, Linda, their devoted daughters Lori (Jeff) DeWall and Lisa (Randy) Schuld, beloved grandchildren Braden and Olivia Schuld, and Brooklyn and Bryce DeWall. He is also survived by his mother-in-law, Janet Simpson, brother-in-law Robert Simpson, and brother Alan (Virginia) Terviel. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his father-in-law William Simpson, and his sister-in-law Tammy Mantello.

Visitation will be held at Sunset Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, located at 8800 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, IL 61115, on Saturday, September 2nd, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. A private family burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that contributions in memory of Gary be made to the American Lung Association at lung.org. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com for the Terviel family.