Gary A Sams

He was born October 1, 1956 in Pekin to Wilbur Raymond and Theresa Mae (Forbes) Sams.

Surviving are his mother, Theresa M. Sams of Pekin; two daughters, Jennifer R. (Dave) Gardner of Pekin and Erica L. Sams of Peoria; three grandchildren; two sisters, Gloria J. (Tino) Juarez and Pamela M. (Gregg) Lockwood, both of Pekin; one brother, Raymond L. Sams of Lafayette, California; and long-time friend and caregiver, Pam King of Pekin.

His father preceded him in death on May 21, 1966 in Pekin.

He was a 1974 graduate of Pekin Community High School.

Gary worked for Aventine Renewable Energy in Pekin for 19 ½ years, last working as a control room operator on October 5, 2004 due to his illness. Previously, he worked as a manager for Illinois Cycle in Pekin and for 9 years at Caterpillar, Inc at the Mossville plant. He later worked as a custodian at Saint Joseph School in Pekin.

He was a member of Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Pekin and was a former member of the Illinois Valley Wheelman.

Gary was an avid bicyclist, an enthusiastic motor sports fan of both Formula One and drag racing, and an expert in blues and rock music.

Gary was very proud of his life's work and helped many along the way. One of his most striking attributes was the goodness of his spirit. He was a kind, gentle, and generous soul who was loved by many. He walked lightly upon the Earth. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

His memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 6, 2007at the Preston-Hanley Funeral Home, Pekin Chapel. Father Timothy Nolan will officiate. Burial will be in Glendale Memorial Gardens in Pekin. The family will receive friends following the service at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Pekin.

Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor's choice.