Gary A Brinkmeier

Gary Allen Brinkmeier, 77, Pace, Florida, passed away November 24, 2025, after a long, courageous fight with many illnesses.

Gary was born near Mt. Carroll, Illinois, to Ralph and Esther Brinkmeier. Gary was one of ten children and spent his early childhood living and doing chores on his parent's farm. This stemmed Gary's lifelong hobby of gardening and yardwork.

Gary married Jennan Miller in 1968 and enlisted in the Army. Their adventures took them all around Europe while stationed in Frankfurt, Germany, until returning to Savanna, Illinois, in 1971.

Gary spent over 30 years at NAS Pensacola, Florida, as a civil servant working for the Department of the Navy, receiving numerous awards during his long career.

Gary, a homebody by nature, loved working outdoors, gardening and taking care of his many cats. There is no job he could not tackle, and his knowledge and wisdom are already greatly missed.

Preceding Gary in death are his son, Gary Brinkmeier, Jr.; parents, Ralph and Esther; brothers, Dale, Dean, and David; and sisters, Ruth and Linda.

Remaining to cherish Gary's memories are his wife of 58 years, Jenann; son, Erich (Kristina) Brinkmeier; daughter, Amy (David) Hauser; grandchildren: Gabrielle, Garrett, Aaron and Nicholas; three great-grandchildren: Kinley, Paisley and Addie; and brothers: Doyle, Eugene, LaVerne & Myrnice Brinkmeier.

Gary, being the low-key, no-frills person he was, requested that no services be held. Gary will be interred at Barrancas National Cemetery, at a later date. Military honors will be conducted by NAS Pensacola Honor Guard.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local cat shelter in Gary's honor.

I know you were tired, Dad, so rest easy. I will take it from here. Love, your son.