Gary W. Hatch

Gary W. Hatch
Died: October 16, 2025
Gary W. Hatch (USAF), 71, of Sandwich, IL, a man of God, family, country, and music, was called home to be with Jesus on October 16, 2025. His family continues to live through his legacy-striving each day to be courageous, faithful, loving, strong, and, most importantly, God-fearing. These were the qualities that made Gary the unforgettable person he was.
Gary was a talented drummer, a true motorhead, and an avid outdoorsman. Growing up with his beloved older sisters, Linda and Joanie, and his late younger sister, Sharon, Gary developed a protective, loving, and deeply understanding nature that carried throughout his life.
He shared an untraditional but beautiful relationship with his firstborn, Travis Pyle, and his second-born, Desiree Charles. Together, they blessed Gary with many wonderful grandchildren whom he loved dearly.
Later in life, on March 13, 1991, Gary met his forever bride, Kelly Miller, when they were both stranded during a snowstorm at the same gas station. The two were married three years later on December 17, 1994. Their love story brought two children into the world-Emily Hatch and Michael Hatch. Emily would go on to give Gary two more precious grandchildren, who became a bright source of joy and strength for him in his later years.
In 2007, Gary found his second family at Fox River Lutheran Church, pastored by Kevin Garner, whom he lovingly referred to as "the guardrails of his faith."
Though Gary's journey in life came with many challenges, he faced each one with courage, grace, and unwavering optimism. He never complained, and his positive spirit was an inspiration to all who knew him.
Gary will be remembered for his faith, his strength, his humor, and his deep love for those around him. His legacy lives on through his wife, children, grandchildren, family, and friends who will forever carry a part of him in their hearts.
He has finished his race, fought the good fight, and kept the faith-now resting peacefully in the arms of his Savior.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Allen, his sister, Sharon, his brother-in-law, Rodney, and his wife, Karen.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Kelly, his daughters, Emily and Desiree, his sons, Michael and Travis, his sisters, Linda and Joanie, and his cherished grandchildren, Jaxon, Chloe, Valerie, Vanessa, Victoria, Alexandra, Arionna, Avery, and Amaya.
Celebration of Life
A celebration of Gary's life will be held on Saturday, November 8th, at 3:30 pm, with a visitation starting at 2:30 pm at Fox River Lutheran Church, 2785 US-52, Sheridan, IL 60551.
Further details on interment at Fowler Grove Cemetery will be disclosed at a later date.
In Lieu of Flowers, memorials may be made in Gary's name to Fox River Lutheran Church, Sheridan, IL or the charity of the donors choice.