Gary Richard Wilnau

Gary Richard Wilnau, 53, of Genoa, IL, died Thursday, July 31, 2025, at home.

Born February 27, 1972, in Park Ridge, IL the son of James Wilnau and Rosanne Hayes, Gary married Michelle Fagiano on July 14, 2001 in Elgin, IL.

Gary is survived by his parents, James and Rosanne; wife, Michelle; children, Alyssa Wilnau (Abraham Marin) and Ethan Wilnau; siblings, Daniel Wilnau and Elizabeth Besterfeldt.

Gary grew up in Illinois but spent some elementary years in Nevada and California where he learned to ride dirt bikes. He returned to Illinois for the remainder of his life. He attended Westminster Christian School in Elgin, Hampshire High School and Elgin Community College.

Gary began his career in the investment and insurance industry in 1990. In 1998 he joined what is now FMS Financial Services and served as the Vice President of Operations and is also a partial owner of the company. Gary is beloved and invaluable to all his coworkers and loved by all who knew him.

Gary and his wife Michelle, who met as teenagers, shared a lifelong bond and connection. They eventually were married and had 2 kids. They found the perfect home in Genoa. Gary took great pride in improving and caring for his home. He felt proud of being a dedicated father and husband, always providing for and protecting his family. Gary valued family time and was happiest with loved ones. His activities included working out, riding bikes, hosting events for others, attending his children's sports and events, watching the Cubs, and supporting his favorite team, the Chicago Bears. He enjoyed vacations with his family; his favorite spot was relaxing on the sands of Cocoa Beach. He loved the carefree feeling of riding his motorcycle. On the weekends you would find him enjoying a cigar and his cocktail in the backyard loving life. He will be deeply missed by all.

He was predeceased by his brother, Jeremiah Thomas.

In loving memory and joyful celebration of Gary Wilnau, we invite you to an open house celebration of his life. Appetizers and snacks will be provided.

Please join us on Saturday, September 13 from 2:00 pm - 6:00 pm at The Reserve, 400 Randall Rd., West Dundee, IL 60118.

We plan to share photos, stories and celebrate the impact he had on all of us in honor of his spirit.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to the family or at the Celebration of Life.

Arrangements by Olson's Quiram Sycamore Chapel, 1245 Somonauk St., Sycamore, IL 60178; 815-895-6589. Visit www.olsonfh.com to share a memory or leave a condolence.