Gary George Hewitt

Gary George Hewitt, 86, of Princeton, Illinois, passed away on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at Liberty Village in Princeton.

Gary was born on June 12, 1939, to George and Irene (Heward) Hewitt. He graduated from Buda High School and married the love of his life, Elaine Marquis, on November 2, 1958, at Bunker Hill Church in Buda.

Throughout his life, Gary was known for his strong work ethic and diverse talents. He worked for many years as a Greenskeeper at Coal Creek Country Club, where he also served as the Club Pro. He later worked at International Harvester in the Quad Cities and farmed alongside his father-in-law, Kenneth Marquis. Following retirement, Gary and Elaine established and operated G&E Orchard in Buda, a venture that reflected their shared dedication and love of the land.

Gary was an avid golfer and fisherman, a proud member of the Manlius Sportsman’s Club, and a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs, Bears, and Blackhawks. He enjoyed spending time outdoors hunting, trapping, and sharing his love of nature with family and friends. His many talents extended beyond his hobbies; he was also a skilled taxidermist and upholsterer, known for the craftsmanship and care he brought to everything he did.

Family was at the center of Gary’s life. He rarely missed an event involving his children, faithfully attending their sporting competitions, music performances, and drama productions. His support extended into the community through his active involvement with the sports and music booster clubs at Western High School.

Perhaps most of all, Gary will be remembered for his beautiful singing voice. He shared his gift generously, performing at churches, community gatherings, local clubs, and the Sheffield Homecoming, bringing joy to all who had the pleasure of hearing him sing.

He is survived by his wife, Elaine Hewitt of Princeton; three children, Gary (Vickie) Hewitt Jr. of Kentucky, Lonnie Hewitt of LaSalle and Jackie Dever of Fairbury; seven grandchildren, Trish Huff, Amber Hewitt, Kathy Jo Powell, Heidi (Paul) MacDiarmid, Brandon Hewitt, Meghan (Travis) Kerr, Matt (Jenna Myklebust) Dever;  ten great-grandchildren; one sister, Jan (Richard) Doty of Sheffield; brother-in-law, Ronald Arnold of Buda; sister-in-law, Karen (Lloyd) May of Princeton; brother-in-law Lloyd (Rae) Marquis of Dallas, TX; along with several nieces and nephews.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Bonnie Arnold, son-in-law, Timothy Dever and niece Stacie Specht.

Private graveside services will be held in Hopeland Cemetery in Buda. Burial will immediately follow.

Memorials may be directed to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research or Illinois CancerCare- Peoria.