Gary Wenzel

Gary Wenzel, 73, of Utica passed away Thursday, December 30, 2021 at Aperion Care in Spring Valley.

Private family services were held. Ottawa Funeral Home & Crematory has been entrusted with arrangements.

Gary was born July 31, 1948 in Peru to Kenneth and Sophia (Baslay) Wenzel. He married Christine Jean Holtz on October 28, 1967; she passed away January 31, 2004.

Gary graduated from LaSalle-Peru Township High School. He was a farmer and heavy equipment operator his whole life, working for Manley Brothers Sand Plant in Troy Grove for over 40 years. He enjoyed spending time outdoors, collecting survival materials, and mowing his farm acreage. He loved his pups, Coco and Mia, and his farm cat, Clem.

He is survived by four children, Richard (Sue), Keith, Clinton, and Lisa Wenzel; four grandchildren, Sophia, Weston, Alexandria, and Payton; and his sister, Judy Schulte. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his sister, Geri Regnier; and his pup, Molly.

Memorials may be directed to his family.