Gary Clifford Keator

1944 - 2018

Gary Clifford Keator 1944—2018
Gary Clifford Keator went to be with his Lord at the age of 74. He unexpectedly passed away at home in Palm Bay, FL on the morning of October 19, 2018. Son of Clifford and Hilma (Hill) Keator, Gary was born on August 20, 1944 in Belvidere IL. Gary was a 1962 graduate of Belvidere High School. Gary's special interests and hobbies included fishing, Baseball (he played through college and after), huge Cubs fan and football Bears fan. Gary married Marilyn Young on April 4, 1976. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn Keator; children; stepchildren and their spouses, Cassie (Keator) and (Shaun) Taylor, Phoenix AZ, Theresa (Brussel) and (Jim) McKeone, Malabar, FL, Jamie (Brussel) Nadowski Rockford, IL; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandsons. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and son, Allen Brussel. Gary lived a full life fulfilling Proverbs 15:20 as he brought joy to not only his father but to all who knew him. An outstanding baseball player, Gary played throughout high school and college and was even chosen to try out for the White Sox. In later years Gary carried on his love for baseball by cheering on the Cubs. When baseball season ended you would find Gary watching football as he cheered on the Bears. When not cheering on his teams Gary enjoyed hunting and fishing often traveling to catch a big one. Gary was a painter by trade and often donated his skills to help others and was always there to help out family and friends as needed. He was a loving husband, father, stepfather, grandfather and great-grandfather. His devoted legacy lives on in those he left behind.
Services will be at 11 a.m., November 3, at Highland Garden of Memories, 9800 11 Route 76, Belvidere, IL 61008. Following services there will be a Celebration of Life at Boone County Historical Museum, 314 S. State St., Belvidere, IL 61008. Arrangements by Ammen Family and Cremation and Funeral, 950 Malabar Rd., 321-724-2224. Condolences at www.afcfcare.com