Darrell L. Gaar, 84, of Oswego, IL, passed away on Saturday, January 28, 2017 at home surrounded by his family. He was born July 9, 1932 in Savanna, IL, the son of Harry and Edith (Groharing) Gaar. He proudly served in the US Air Force for four years, enlisting near the end of the Korean War. He married Barbara Heitmeier on August 27, 1961 and spent many happy years together until her death in 2008. He taught biology at Oswego High School in the 1960's until pursuing a career in real estate that spanned over 50 years. He served as the Oswego Township Assessor for 29 years until his retirement in 1997. He was currently serving on the Kendall County Board of Review. Over the years, he and his family opened their home to many foreign exchange students and minor league baseball players totaling 41 in all. His love for cooking lead to him publishing a cookbook that will forever be cherished. He was a kind, intelligent and generous man who always put others first. He truly loved his family and most of all being a grandpa. He will be missed greatly by his family and for those who were fortunate enough to have known him. He is survived by his daughter, LeeAnn (Mark) Martens of Oswego,IL, grandchildren Hailey Martens of Oswego, IL and Matthew (Amberley and Brayden) Martens of Loganville, GA, a sister, Letha Murney of Dixon, IL and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife, his son, James in 2012, two sisters and five brothers. Visitation will be held on Friday, February 3, 2017 from 4:00 -7:00 p.m. with a memorial service to follow at 7:00 p.m. at Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 1801 Douglas Rd, Oswego. IL. 60543-0665. Phone 630-554-3888. Burial will be private. Memorials may be directed to Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) or American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). For more information or to leave a condolence message go to www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com