Gary U. Van Cleave

Gary U. Van Cleave, 84, of Metamora, IL, formerly of Peoria, IL, passed away on Friday, December 29, 2023.
He was born on November 21, 1939, in Spring Valley, IL, to Warren and Frances (Ulrich) Van Cleave. He married Barbara A. Kappler on June 13, 1964 in Peoria, IL. She survives.
Also surviving are two children, Dawn (Joe) Peters of Oneida, IL and Brian Van Cleave of Peoria, IL; four grandchildren, Jenni (Andrew) Erickson of Altona, IL, Morgan (Michael Harrison) Van Cleave of Normal, IL, Nate Peters of Erie, PA, and Jacob Van Cleave of Peoria, IL; one great-grandchild, Silas Erickson; and one sister, Carol Van Cleave of St. Petersburg, FL. He was preceded in death by his parents.
A 1957 graduate of Central High School, Gary served in the Air Force from 1958-1963. He spent a majority of his time stationed in Spain playing in the Air Force Band. In 1966, he graduated from Midstate College.
He began his sales career at International Harvester followed by other sales positions in real estate, insurance, advertising, automobiles, and communications.
Gary was a member of Prospect United Methodist Church in Dunlap, IL, where he enjoyed singing in the choir. Most recently, he sang with the choir of Willow Hill United Methodist Church in Germantown Hills, IL.
He enjoyed participating in various clubs and organizations, Peoria Area Color Shooters (photography), singing with Corn Stock Theatre, Bradley Community Chorus, Peoria Civic Opera Chorus, Peoria Players Theatre, Peoria Area Civic Chorale, Philharmonic Chorale, Central Illinois Four Freshman Singers, and the American Legion in Peoria.
Gary was known for his hearty laugh, his love of telling jokes, and his ability to make a friend wherever he went.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A Celebration of Life Service will be held from 2:00 pm until 4:00 pm on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at the Snyder Village SV Center with Pastor Nicole Cox officiating. Visitation will be held one hour prior to his service. Burial of Ashes will be in Springdale Cemetery and Mausoleum at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Snyder Village Residents in Need Fund, 1200 East Partridge Street, Metamora, IL 61548. Online condolences at www.masonfuneralhomes.com.