Gary Robert Parmelee

Gary Robert Parmelee, 85, passed away on Friday, July 11, 2025, at Proctor Hospital in Peoria. He was born on November 3, 1939, the son of the late Kenneth Earl and Mabel "Susie" (Chase) Parmelee in Peoria. His mother died during childbirth when Gary was 8 years old. He was raised in foster care until he went to college.

Gary graduated from Manual High School. He was a left-handed pitcher on the baseball team. His coach, Ed Stonebock, influenced his choice in career after high school. He graduated from ISU with a degree in business education and immediately enrolled in graduate school earning his master's in guidance and counseling, and later a post-master's degree in administration.

His career led him in many different directions including guidance counselor, Principal, and while teaching at Morton High School he served as athletic director. Gary was an assistant to legend George Taylor and Jim Thorton. He was also head coach at Hall High School and Lamoille High school. After retiring from the public schools, he was Principal at Holy Family Catholic Grade School for nine years. He loved it!

In 1962, Gary married Kathy Hobin. She survives, along with their four children his grandchildren: son, Andy (Nicki) – Abby and Mac Parmelee, son, Joe (Stacy) – Joe and Charlie Parmelee, daughter, Nancy (Jay) – John and Kathleen Ledinsky, and son, Tom Parmelee. Gary is also survived by his sister Sharon (Dave) Kelso, brother, Ken (Wendy) Parmelee, his In-Laws, and nieces and nephews,

Gary and Kathy traveled all over the world and had wonderful friendships, some dating back to early childhood. Together they always had beautiful and inviting homes.

The things that gave him the most fun and pleasure were his family, faith, travel, the St. Louis Cardinals, Bradley basketball, Susie's hot dogs, old westerns and following his grandchildren's sports and activities.

The family would like to thank Dr. Thomas Kouri and all the wonderful people and staff at Beuhler Home for their compassion. It was a hard thing to move there and each and everyone of them helped make it easier.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 12 p.m. at St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Peoria. Visitation will be held two hours prior to the Mass from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the church. Immediately following Mass there will be a reception meal in St. Jude’s Hettinger Hall. Private burial of ashes will be held at a later date.

Donations in Gary's memory may be made to St. Jude’s Catholic Church, "Look It's My Book", or Apostolic Christian Timber Ridge in Morton.

Arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Wright and Salmon Mortuary. (309-688-4441)