Gary L. Renko, 71, of Alhambra, IL, passed away on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at home.
He was born on October 21, 1954, in Richmond Heights, MO, to Louis and Anna (nee Poling) Renko.
Gary lived in the Alhambra area his whole life and graduated from Highland High School in 1973. In his younger years, Gary enjoyed riding motorcycles and had his pilots license, doing aerial photography. He was an avid photographer, liked to go fishing, listened to classic rock music, and most recently, he dabbled in canvas painting. Gary also had a telescope and was fascinated with astronomy. Due to his disability, Gary led a private life, mostly keeping to himself, and he greatly enjoyed nature.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Anna Renko, Sr., and brother-in-law, Steve Hatton.
Gary is survived by his siblings, Louis “Louie” (Janet) Renko, Jr., Highland, IL, Deborah “Debbie” Hatton, Alhambra, IL, Rick (Tammi) Renko, Alhambra, IL; and several nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Per his wishes, Gary is being cremated, and no services will be held at this time.
Meridith Funeral Home, Highland, IL
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
1223 Broadway, Highland, IL 62249
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.

Please consider a donation as requested by the family.

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more