Lanny Gillman

Lanny Gillman, 77, of rural Akron, Indiana passed unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at his residence.
Lanny Gillman was born on April 26, 1948, in Man, West Virginia, to Everett and Myrtle (Browning) Gillman. On July 7, 1967, in Clintwood, Virginia, he married Linda S. Lester, the love of his life who preceded him in death on July 4, 2025.
Lanny's work ethic was evident in every chapter of his life. He began at Kringle Farms in the chicken houses near Tippecanoe, where he first met Linda. He later worked at the trailer factory in Bourbon, at Kralis Brothers, and as a janitor at Mentone Elementary. His longest tenure was with ABC Industries, where he served in maintenance for over 45 years with dedication and pride.
A self-taught welder with remarkable skill, Lanny had a gift for fixing things and a drive for perfection. He was never afraid to take something apart just to make it right. He loved collecting Wheel Horses and hats, and he was a Denver Broncos fan. Fishing brought him peace, but his greatest joy came from time spent with family, where no one ever left hungry, thanks to the warmth and generosity he and Linda shared.
Lanny was a teacher in the truest sense, especially to his daughters. He instilled the values of hard work, gratitude, and self-reliance. He believed nothing in life was free and lived each day with optimism and intention. He listened deeply, loved animals wholeheartedly, and helped cultivate a large family garden every summer-passing down lessons in both sustainability and love.
He is survived by his daughters Chris and husband Craig Williamson of Akron, Michelle and husband Mitch Holloway of Mentone, Nicole Wareham of Bourbon, and Andria and husband Matt Smith of Akron; grandchildren Priscilla (Mason), Trenton (Toni), Miranda (Anthony), Logan (Sabrina), Brendan (Keerah), Breylon (Gracelynn), Alexis (Andrew), and Madison (Grant); 7 Great Grandchildren; brother Billy and wife Donna Gillman of Mentone; and sister Joyce and husband Jay Newsome of Columbus, Sue Adkins of Warsaw, and Donna Wadkins of Silver Lake.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Linda, sisters Shirley Adams and Judy Gillman, brother Everett Gillman Jr., as well as 2 infant brothers.
The funeral service will take place at 10:30 am, Friday, November 7, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home 305 West Rochester Street Akron, Indiana. His interment will take place following the service in Nichols Cemetery, Akron, Indiana next to his wife. Visitation hours will be held from 5 pm to 7 pm, Thursday, November 6, 2025 at Hartzler Funeral Home, Akron, Indiana.
Memorial contributions can be made in his memory to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude’s Place Memphis, TN 38105 or to the local animal shelter of your choosing.