Walter Gannon

Walter “Gary” Gannon, age 79 of Westfield, passed away on Saturday, April 30, 2016 at U.W. Hospital in Madison. He was born on July 16, 1936 in Elgin, IL to Walter and Dorothy (Lagerstrom) Gannon. Gary graduated from Elgin High School in 1954. On December 28, 1954 he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served his country. While stationed at Truax Field in Madison he met his future wife, Mary Jane Kemnitz. They were married on September 13, 1958 and have been married for 57 years. After being discharged on December 27, 1958, they moved to Elgin, IL where he worked for Biggers Chevrolet for eight years and then at Elgin Sweeper Co. for 30 years, retiring in December of 1998. In 2000, Gary and Mary moved back to Westfield.

Gary liked to design and build things in his younger days. He built a two car garage, sheds and a bridge over the creek. He also enjoyed putting 500 piece puzzles together, traveling, going to casinos, watching NASCAR and football games as an avid Bears fan.

Survivors include his wife, Mary; two sons, Dennis, Westfield and Jay (Melissa), IL; seven grandchildren, Jill (Ryan), Scott and Gary (Michelle) Gannon, Eden, Quinn and Austin Gannon and Hannah Gannon; four great grandchildren, Ryan and Lucas Crosby and Jeren and Jaxten Gannon; two sisters, Mary Sue (George) Zenger, IL and Nancy (Monte) Mecklenburg, WA; one brother, Jeff (Catherine), TX; other relatives and friends. Gary was preceded in death by his mom; dad; step mom, Rita and his oldest son, Terry in 2012.

A memorial service for Gary will be held on Thursday, May 5, 2016 at 11:00 a.m. at Steinhaus-Holly Funeral Home of Westfield with Pastor Alyson Janke officiating. Inurnment will be in Westfield East Cemetery. A visitation will be held on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the hour of service.

Please take a moment to view the online guestbook. Send your condolences or share a memory of Gary with his family & friends.