Wayne G. Geary

Wayne Gregory Geary, 72, passed away peacefully at home on October 8, 2025, with his family by his side. He was born on November 24, 1952, in Rockford, Illinois, to Norman and Glyda Geary. A lifelong resident of the Rockford area, Wayne graduated from East High School, Class of 1970. On February 19, 1972, he married his high school sweetheart, Jackie Wallace, and together they shared 53 wonderful years of marriage filled with laughter, love, and countless adventures. Wayne worked his entire life as a machinist in various manufacturing companies throughout the Rockford and Loves Park area, taking great pride in his craft and work ethic. He was immensely proud of his two children, Lori and Nick, and his four grandchildren, Bryn, Brogan, Dylan, and Hannah. Wayne loved watching NASCAR (#3 forever) and cheering on his beloved Chicago Bears - even through the tough seasons. He also enjoyed a good PBR (Pabst Blue Ribbon), sitting around a campfire telling one of his many legendary stories, and relaxing in his front yard with a cigarette and a beer, people-watching, visiting with neighbors, and occasionally shouting at passing cars just to keep things lively. Wayne loved visiting family at the Farm in Viroqua, where he cherished time spent outdoors and catching up with loved ones. He also had a soft spot for the dance floor - if "Boot Scootin' Boogie" came on, you could bet Wayne would be out there dancing and having a great time. Wayne and Jackie enjoyed traveling together and made wonderful memories - and lifelong friends - on their many trips filled with fun and shenanigans. Wayne had a gift for storytelling, a heart full of love, and a laugh that could fill a room. He loved his family unconditionally and was proud of his kids and grandkids and their accomplishments. Wayne is survived by his wife, Jackie; his children, Lori (Mike Gyllenswan) Hansmeier and Nick (Edita) Geary; his grandchildren, Bryn Hansmeier, Brogan Hansmeier, Dylan Geary, and Hannah Geary; his brothers, Dean (Debbie) Geary, Ted Geary, and Bill Geary; his sister, Linda Alexander-Joslin; sisters-in-law, Debbie (Gordy) Hopkins and Cathie Kittler; his new furry friend, Dixie; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Norman and Glyda Geary; his son, Keith Daniel Geary; his brother, Lars Geary; his sister, Lois Weeks; and his favorite dog, Oscar. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Mo Cara Hospice, especially Sara, for the wonderful and compassionate care they provided to Wayne in his final weeks. A celebration of Wayne's life (and storytelling) will be held on Saturday, November 8th, from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Roscoe VFW, 11385 2nd St., Roscoe. Please come share your "Wayne stories" and celebrate his life the way he would have wanted - with laughter, love, good company and some PBR's. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Wayne G. Geary, please visit our floral store.