Gary Louis Kerkhover

GARY LOUIS KERKHOVER, 81, of Rockwood, Illinois, passed peacefully at home on, Tuesday, January 20, 2026.

He was born on March 15, 1944, in Red Bud, Illinois, to the late Louis J. and Wilma (nee Shemonic) Kerkhover.

Gary lived a life marked by care, steadiness, and loyalty to the people and places he loved. He found his greatest joy on his family’s farm, where he felt most at home - close to the land, the work, and the rhythms he knew well.

He worked for more than 30 years as a truck driver with the Chester Dairy in Chester, Illinois, a role he carried out with pride, reliability, and a strong sense of responsibility. Through his work, he quietly touched the lives of many - steady, encouraging, and often like a dad to those who needed one

Gary served his country as a member of the United States Army, a commitment that shaped his quiet discipline and respect for others throughout his life.

On December 1, 1990, Gary married the love of his life, Lynn M. Clay, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Wine Hill, Illinois. She survives.

Family mattered deeply to him. He loved them fully and faithfully, in ways that were constant and enduring.

Survivors:

Wife:

   Lynn Kerkhover  Rockwood, IL

3 Children:

   Crystal (Stuart) Kunz   Percy, IL

   Katie Kerkhover  Nashville, TN

  Vicki (Jeff) Laramore  Chester, IL

4 Grandchildren

   Kati Ruth-Ellen (Austin) Kunz, Joel (Faith) Kunz, Mollie Laramore, and Marah Laramore.

2 Great Grandchildren: 

   Raylynn Sue Kunz & Colson Kurt-Wayne Kunz.

2 Siblings:

   Sandra (John) Mahon  Moline, IL

   R. Jeffrey (Diane) Kerkhover  Chester, IL

Many Nieces, Nephews, Cousins, and Friends

Preceded in Death by: Parents

In accordance with Gary’s wishes, he will be cremated. A memorial service will be held at a later date at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis, Missouri.

Gary will be remembered for his quiet strength, his love of home, and the simple goodness of a life well lived. He leaves behind a life built on care, work, and love.