Gary R. Amendt

Gary Reuben Amendt, 78, of Eleroy IL, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2023, in Freeport, IL. He was born on January 10, 1945, in Freeport, IL, to Reuben and Ruby (Stumbaugh) Amendt. He was a graduate of Lena-Winslow High School in 1963. After high school, Gary proudly served in the United States Navy on the James C. Owens DD776. After his military service, he dedicated himself to a successful career at the Journal Standard and Microswitch in Freeport, IL, where he retired after 30 years.
Gary was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, in Lena.
In his free time, Gary had a wide variety of hobbies that brought him joy and fulfillment. He had a green thumb and loved spending time in his garden, mowing the lawn, plowing the snow, and feeding the birds. Crocheting and genealogy were also passions of his, and he enjoyed the creative process and the connections he made with his family history. Gary also found great pleasure in fishing, mushroom hunting, and attending his grandchildren's activities. He was a devoted fan of the Lena-Winslow Stockton PantherHawks wrestling program and loved cheering on many wrestlers over the years! He had a deep appreciation for John Deere and snow and his love for the Chicago Cubs, iced tea and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups was unmatched. Gary could often be found sitting on his front porch, enjoying the simple pleasures of life.
Gary is survived by his loving wife, Jean Amendt, and their children: Derek (Julie Skaggs) Amendt of Union, IL, Ryan (Susan) Amendt of Eleroy, IL, and Timothy Amendt of Eleroy, IL. He was a proud grandfather to Christopher (Annie) Amendt, Erin Amendt, Max Amendt, Molly Amendt, and Brody Amendt. Gary also leaves behind his sister, Cheryl (Mike) Thyberg. He was preceded in death by his parents, Reuben and Ruby Amendt, his infant brother, Terry, and his father and mother-in-law, Victor and Charlene Wells.
Gary's dedication to his country and his family will always be remembered. He will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
A Visitation will be held from 9:00 to 11:00 on Saturday, November 25, 2023 at Burke-Tubbs Funeral Home in Freeport, IL.
A memorial service will be held at 11:00 following the visitation.
A memorial has been established in Gary's memory.