S. Gary Catherwood, of Springfield, Illinois went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Monday morning, Nov 17th. He left peacefully with his wife of 50 years, Laura, at his side, and his loving family having tucked him in the night before. Gary was born to Stan and Wilma Catherwood, August 11, 1952, and raised in Springfield, having graduated from Lanphier High School, going on to Lincoln Land and graduating from Greenville College with his degree in Physical Education. He excelled in sports but especially in track, cross country, golf, bowling, racquetball and ping pong. Many family and friends can attest to this.
Gary taught PE in Chicago area right after marrying Laura (Campbell) Catherwood, then they returned to Springfield where he was a Hearing Officer for the Sec. of State of IL most of his 30+ year career. Following retirement, many of Laura’s Realtor friends remember Gary as the licensed radon inspector, which kept him busy until Parkinson’s developed several years ago, causing him to retire.
Gary and Laura are blessed with 3 married children: Brian (and Hannah) Catherwood, Curt (and Crystal) Catherwood and Bethany (and Bobby) VanDerWal plus 6 beautiful grandchildren: Noah & Esther (Brian), Clark & Zeke (Curt) and Elliott & Easton (Bethany) who were blessings to Grandpa. He is also survived by June Campbell, his mother-in-law, sisters and brothers-in-law, several cousins, and adoring nieces and nephews.
Gary and Laura loved traveling and visited several continents and many countries, but as most know, his favorite was Isla Mujeres, Mexico, where they have taken many family and friends.
Gary was blessed to be raised by godly parents and he and Laura are blessed to have raise children and grandchildren who love the Lord and will see him one day again. This is a reassuring promise that we all know is true.
Gary always played a part in his church, Faith Bible Church (formerly known as Christian Bible Church), as Music Director, Youth leader, Awana leader, Teen Sunday School class teacher, Deacon and Elder for a time. He brought others together, serving the Lord in every way he could, as a living testimony. He is loved and will be missed. His acts of kindness and sense of humor will be remembered by all.
Visitation: 4 - 7 pm, Friday, November 22, 2024, at Staab Funeral Home – Springfield. An additional visitation will be held from 10:15 – 10:45 am, Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Faith Bible Church, 4850 Old Jacksonville Road, Springfield, IL 62711.
Funeral Service: 11 am, Saturday, November 23, 2024, at Faith Bible Church with Pastor Curt Daniel officiating. Burial will follow at Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Memorials can be made to Faith Bible Church which will go to our missionaries.
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