Gary Lee Bumgardner

BRAIDWOOD—Gary Lee Bumgardner, 83, of Braidwood, passed away Sunday, March 15, 2026 at Serenity Estates in Morris.
Born July 21, 1942 in Ramsey, IL, Gary was the son of Dan and Iola (née Carter) Bumgardner. He married Linda Kay Austin on Dec. 23, 1962 in Herrick, IL, and together they shared more than 63 years of marriage devoted to family, community, and faith.
Gary worked as a millwright at Caterpillar Tractor Company in Joliet. Known for his mechanical ability and willingness to lend a hand, he also enjoyed repairing small engines.
Gary was a dedicated member of the Braidwood Lions Club for 52 years and remained actively involved in supporting the organization's service to the community. He was also a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Braidwood, where he served as an Elder.
Above all, Gary treasured his role within his family as a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Kay Bumgardner, of Braidwood; one son, Trent (Tania) Bumgardner, of Libertyville, IL; one daughter, Katrina Hadley (Kevin Dillon) of Streator, IL; three grandchildren: Vincent (Elise) Botta, Julie Botta and Tyler Bumgardner; and five great-grandchildren: Vivian, Maxwell, Roman and Ezra Botta, and Julian Baez.
He is also survived by his sister, Carol Ann (Dennis) Schmitt, of Vandalia, IL; his brother, Darrel (Patty) Bumgardner, of Oconee, IL; and his sister-in-law, Sherry Bumgardner.
Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Dan and Iola Bumgardner, and his brother, Gerald Bumgardner.
Visitation will be held Thursday, March 19, 2026 at First Presbyterian Church in Braidwood from 2 p.m. until the time of service at 3 p.m. Funeral services will begin at 3 p.m. with Reverend Dale Tolley officiating. In accordance with Gary's wishes, cremation rites will be accorded following the services, with inurnment at Myers Cemetery in Herrick, IL at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gary's name may be made to the Braidwood Lions Club, honoring his 52 years of service and commitment to the club's mission of helping others in the community.
R.W. Patterson Funeral Home & Crematory, www.rwpattersonfuneralhomes. com, 401 E. Main St., Braidwood is entrusted with arrangements.