Gary Lynn Cothren

Born March 18, 1951 in Peoria to Keith and Retha (Hazelwood) Cothren, Gary spent the last 11 wonderful years with his partner, Cheryl Foster, who survives him.

He is also survived by two daughters, Melissa (Cothren) Phillips of Peoria, Illinois, and Sara Cothren Cook and her husband, Cory, of Waikoloa, Hawaii; four grandchildren, Sarena, Corinne, Loki, and Lux; and one sister, Anita Austin of Jackson, Tennessee.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his son, Gared O’Donnell.

Gary worked for Caterpillar Inc. for 47 years, retiring in 2013 from the Marketing Department. His work allowed him to connect with people around the world, something he truly valued. Known as a loyal colleague and good friend, Gary was admired for his warmth, generosity, and his willingness to lend a hand to anyone in need.

A lifelong enthusiast of performance cars and motorcycles, Gary found joy not only in owning and driving a wide range of vehicles but also in spending countless hours tinkering in his garage.

In keeping with his final wishes, no memorials will be held. Instead, the family invites you to honor Garyʻs memory by doing something kind for another person, an everyday gesture that will bring them a little happiness and joy.

Cremation rites have been accorded to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes and Crematory of Pekin.

To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com