Gary Dean VanZandt

Gary Dean VanZandt, 83, of Christopher, IL passed away peacefully on Saturday December 6, 2025 at Sunshine Gardens in Marion, IL. He was born on March 12, 1942 in West Frankfort, IL to Porter and Myrl (Dees) VanZandt. Gary graduated from Christopher Community H. S. in 1960. He is survived by his twin sister Barbara Sheeley of Hudson, FL, and sister-in-law Billie VanZandt of Christopher; nieces Pam Norris of Sesser, Andrea Parker of MI; Kim Orlando, Kris Clark, & Karol Turco of FL, Kelly Hunt of SC, Linda Sheeley & Trisha Sheeley of OR; nephews Kyle Childers of FL and Steven Sheeley of MI and other nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother Doy VanZandt and sister Charmaine Childers. Gary served honorably in the U.S. Army and was a Vietnam War Veteran. He was an active member of the Christopher American Legion for 59 years and was also a longtime member of the UMWA. Gary was an avid hunter and fisherman and owned several hunting dogs over the years. He also was very fond of sports cars. His favorite hangout was the Maid Rite, where he spent a great deal of time visiting with his friends in Christopher. In his earlier years, he would travel to Florida to spend time visiting with his nieces and nephews. He was a great supporter of Christopher Community H.S. sports teams. Funeral services for Gary will be held on Thursday December 18, 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher with Brother Larry Cook officiating. Visitation will be on Thursday from 11:00 AM until the time of the service at 1:00 PM at the funeral home. There will be a Military Funeral Honors. Burial will be at Maple Hill Cemetery in Sesser, IL.