Gary Blocker, 84, passed from this life on earth to his heavenly home on January 5, 2026. Gary was born on January 7, 1941, in Hinsdale, IL. He met the love of his life in high school and married Diane on September 30, 1961. They were married for nearly 60 years until her passing on September 25, 2020. Together with Diane, Gary spent most of his life as a resident of Oswego, IL, moving to Sandwich, IL, more recently to downsize and simplify after Diane's passing. Gary will be remembered as an honest man, a devoted family man, a sincere friend, and a generous soul who helped shape the lives of many people with whom he interacted.

With Diane, Gary founded G.A. Blocker Grading Contractor in 1969, taking the risks and enjoying the rewards of the construction industry. Until his retirement in the early 1990s, Gary was involved in all aspects of the business, earning the reputation of a hardworking, ethical man who genuinely cared about his employees and customers. He took pride in watching employees succeed—even if their successes came after their time working with him. After the transition of the business to his sons, Gary shifted his attention and work ethic to a new venture, Blackberry Oaks Golf Course. He was involved in the construction, management, and operation of Blackberry Oaks until he sold his interest in 2023. He truly enjoyed spending time at the course working on various projects, playing golf, and welcoming others. For many years, it was his second home.

Common themes in everything Gary undertook were generosity and care for others. Gary was never too busy to help a friend, co-worker, family member, or employee with whatever they needed and would often share advice on family, finances, and faith with those who asked. He also had an old-school approach to discipline that never left you wondering what he thought, but he could immediately pivot and become your fiercest advocate. Once Gary was your friend, he was your friend for life, standing by your side through anything. Inherent in all of this was his sense of humor. Gary could tell a great story and, like his father, would usually be laughing so hard with you by the end that he could barely finish the punchline. It was not uncommon to share tears of laughter with him.

Gary was a devoted family man, involved in the lives and activities of his children, their families, and especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He delighted in watching them grow and enjoyed making memories working on cars, playing on the farm, or attending their various activities. Until Diane's passing, they also enjoyed many travel adventures together across the country, both on their own and with friends. They were truly meant for each other, and he was heartbroken when she passed.

Those left to celebrate Gary's life are his three sons, Kevin (Debi), Brad (Julie), and Matt (Nikki); grandchildren, Michael, Scott, Meagan, Danielle, Ashley, Luke, and Audrey; two great-grandchildren, River and Crew; brother, William (Carole); brother-in-law, Duke (Barb) Guenther; sister-in-law, Sue (John) Milburn; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Gary was preceded in death by his father, Clarence; siblings, Mike Blocker and Betsie Johnson; and his loving wife, Diane.

A gathering of family and friends will take place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Dunn Family Funeral Home with Crematory, 1801 Douglas Road, Oswego, IL. A private celebration of life will be held on Monday morning, January 12, at the same location. Cremation took place at American Crematory in Oswego, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gary's name to Wayside Cross Ministries (www.waysidecross.org/donate-now).

For additional information, please call 630-554-3888 or visit www.dunnfamilyfuneralhome.com