Gary Ernest Gast of Warren, Il passed away peacefully at home with his family on August 8, 2026. He was born November 23, 1942 in Freeport, Il. He was the son of Ernest and Genevieve (Volkers) Gast. Gary married Tana Donovan at McConnell Methodist Church on July 17, 1965.

Gary graduated from University of Platteville, Wisconsin in 1964 and taught history at Warren Jr/Sr. High School for over 30 years. In his early years, he enjoyed working at Krupke’s gas station. After he retired, he worked for Warren Flash and Whitman’s Woodworking.

Gary enjoyed bowling and played on several softball teams. Gary and Tana traveled many places during their 61 years of marriage. He especially enjoyed attending and watching the grandchildren's activities such as hockey, baseball, cow shows and dance. The Nutcracker was one of his favorite ballets. His grandchildren were his greatest joy, and he was proud of them all.

He is survived by his wife Tana, two daughters; Marlea (Bill) Panagiotaros, Jennifer (Scott) Brenner, brother, Edward (Wanda) Gast and sister in law Kathy Gast, seven grandchildren; Krystal (Lucas) Panagiotaros, Colin Panagiotaros, Trevor Brenner, Brian Brenner, Madasyn (Theodore) Ils, Marianna Brenner, Mason Brenner. Two great grandchildren; Bow and Paisley Ils. He is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepmother Alice Gast and his brother William Gast.

Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 16 at Bartell-Leamon Funeral Home in Warren, IL.

Funeral Services will be held on Monday, August 17 with visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. with service beginning at 11:00 a.m. at the Warren United Methodist Church.

Officiating will be Rev. Matt Smith.

A luncheon to follow at the Warren United Methodist Church.

Internment will take place at a later date.

A memorial has been established in his name for Warren District #205 Foundation fund.

The family would like to thank the Healthcare Team at Mercy Health Hospital and Hospice for

their care and compassion.