Peter C. Gartner

Peter C. Gartner, 82, of Princeton, IL formerly of Sterling, IL passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 in Princeton.

Pete was born on March 14, 1943 in Sterling, IL the son of Jack and Elizabeth (Lease) Gartner. He was a graduate of Newman Catholic High School in 1961. Then, went on to attend Hobart Welding School and IVCC Truck Driving School. Pete served in the United States Navy during the Cuban Missile Crisis on the U.S.S. Enterprise CVN65; the United States first Nuclear Aircraft Carrier. In 1964, he sailed in “Operation Sea Orbit”, an around the world Good Will tour on the USS Enterprise.  After serving in the military, Pete met the love of his life, Nancy Klocke, and they were married on August 24, 1968 in Sterling, IL.

Pete worked as a welder for the Hennepin Steel Mill for 30 years and drove 14 years part time for Double D Trucking. He also did upholstery work for 40 plus years. Pete was a member of the Spring Valley Boat Club for 29 years, loved boating on the Illinois River for 35 years, and traveling with his family in Europe and in the United States.

Survivors include his wife, Nancy Gartner of Princeton; one daughter, Kara (David) Garmon of Highland, IN; one son, Joshua Gartner of Hornsby, TN; two grandsons, Jack of Walnut, IL., Jake Gartner of Hornsby, TN. one step-grandson, Collin Garmon of Highland, IN; and many beloved nieces and nephews who thought of Pete as their Bonus Dad. Along with special friends, Jenny and Brett Andrew.  This extended family meant the world to Pete.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, David Gartner, William Gartner, Charles Peter and two sisters, Helen Krone and Mary Rita Henry.

A celebration of life will be held from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm on Friday, July 18, 2025 at Grant-Johnson Funeral Home in Princeton. Graveside Services will be held the next day for Family and Friends at 11:00 am on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Sterling, IL with Father Thomas J. Doyle officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Buddy Bags of Princeton, and Second Story.