"Woody" Michael Gage

"Woody" Michael Gage, 70, of Ottawa, passed away Thursday, July 23, 2026 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

A celebration of life will be held on August 22 from 12:00pm until 4:00pm at the American Legion Dugout.

Woody was born on June 13, 1956 in Ottawa, IL to Glen and Dorothy (Gash) Gage. He married Donna Cross on October 4, 2008 in an intimate service at their home.

He was a proud member of Laborer's Local 393 for many years until his retirement. He loved to go hunting and fishing and took many trips to Wisconsin and Minnesota, and several trips where he was flown in to Canada. He enjoyed turtling with his good friends Rick Navarro and Merle Farrell. He was an excellent cook and never let the spoils of his hunting and fishing go to waste. He was known for having a great sense of humor and quick wit. He was able to make anybody laugh. He was a friend to many and will be missed by all.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Gage; his step-children, Scott (Katie) Cross and Michelle Darlasis; his step-grandchildren, Rylee, Savanna, Jayden, and Logan; his siblings, Glenda Bain, Tim (Jocelyn) Gage, Jim (Linda) Gage, and Gary Gage; as well as his beloved pets, Lilly Rose, Annabelle, Cooper, Kitten, and Chance.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Glen and Dorothy; and his siblings, Anne Dubach and Kelly Gage.

Memorial contributions in his honor may be directed to the family.

"The Hunting Camp" - Author David Raikes

Such great friendships made,
Within these walls,
Such fond memories we recall,
Though some us will go away
More will come and some will stay,
Late at night, by the old wood stove,
Many stories will be told,
And by the light of kerosene lamp,
Great friends are made
At the hunting camp.