Gary W. Thorpe

He was born on June 2, 1931, in Alton, IL. Gary was the only child of Edward and Hazel Thorpe. They preceded him in death. He married Patricia (Smith) on August 11, 1951. She preceded him in death.

Gary is survived by his two daughters, Shelley Thorpe of Peoria and Sandy Thorpe (Lisa) of Burnsville, NC. He is also survived by one grandchild, Jason Gama (Katie) of Dunlap and four great-grandchildren, Ella, Drew, Faith and Molly Gama.

Gary was a natural athlete and played football at Mt. Vernon Township High School, Iowa State University, and for the Air Force All-Star team when he served in the Korean War.

Gary started his career as a junior executive at Caterpillar in Peoria. He and two co-workers left CAT to buy a Mr. Donut franchise in 1960. One store grew into a four-store operation in Peoria. Following that endeavor, Gary took over Business Service Associates, an accounting business which he owned and operated for 30 years.

Gary loved fishing and often went with his family to Lake Shelbyville to camp and fish. He also loved to hunt and had three Brittany spaniels who brought him great joy. Gary and Pat shared a love of music and enjoyed dancing together, their favorite being the Jitterbug.

The family would like to thank the dedicated and compassionate staff on the 4th floor at Unity Point Proctor. They would also like to thank Dr. Mark Smith and his caring staff.

Visitation will be 5:00-7:00 pm Tuesday, November 15, 2016 at Davison-Fulton Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home, 2408 West Willow Knolls Dr, Peoria.

Graveside service will be held at 11:00 am Wednesday, November 16th at Parkview Cemetery in Peoria.

Memorial contributions may be made to Unity Point Hospice – Peoria.