STILLMAN VALLEY – Gary R. Larson, age 77, died peacefully at his home in Stillman Valley surrounded by his loving family. He was born Oct. 10, 1943 in Rockford, the son of Alfred and Wilma (Johnson) Larson.
He graduated from Rockford East High School. Gary married Julia Friday on May 1, 1964 at the Congregational Christian Church in Stillman Valley. He worked many years for the Teamster’s # 325, and also later worked for the Meridian School District in Stillman Valley and the Village of Davis Junction. Gary was a fireman for the Stillman Valley Fire Protection District and was the first EMT for the department. He loved to coach baseball and softball for all his children and grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his parents, and 2 sisters Janet Henson and Carole Larson.
He is survived by his loving wife Julie of Stillman Valley, daughter Bethani Larson of Monroe Center, sons; Brad (Stacy) Larson of Rockford, Brian (Karen) Larson of Leaf River, and Brett (Gina) Larson of Roscoe, sister Diane Veitch of Stillman Valley, 7 grandchildren; Camryn, Kinsey, and Carsyn Lauer, Zoey Larson, Micah Larson, Jack and Lucas Koeller, and one more on the way; and dog, Gabby.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, a private funeral service will be held at the Congregational Christian Church in Stillman Valley with the Rev. Chris Brauns officiating. Burial will be in the Stillman Valley Cemetery. A walkthrough visitation will be held Sunday, March 21, 2021 at the Farrell-Holland-Gale Funeral Home, 136 W. Roosevelt Rd., Stillman Valley, IL 61084 from 2-4 p.m., face mask and social distancing are required. A memorial fund is established in Gary’s name.
