Gary Lee Allan

It is with heavy hearts, yet rejoicing in hope, we announce the passing of Gary Lee Allan, age 85, formerly of Pekin, Illinois, who died peacefully on July 29th, 2025, at Central Wyoming Hospice in Casper, Wyoming.

Gary was born on July 16, 1940, in Jacksonville, Illinois, the son of Donald and Frances "Garney" Allan. He spent his formative years in Illinois and graduated from East Peoria High School in East Peoria, IL. He married Frances Gregory and were married for 35 years.

A Marine Reservist, Gary, served his country from 1963 to 1 969, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Gary had a long and dedicated career at Caterpillar, where he worked for 30 years and 7 months before retiring in 1994.

Gary was a long-standing member of both the Pekin Archers and St. John's Lutheran Church in Pekin. He was passionate about bowhunting and devoted considerable time to outdoor activities, including spending long hours in tree stands, riding his four-wheeler, and camping. Camping served as a meaningful source of memories shared with friends and family, particularly the Hicks, Shelton, and Kambic families. Gary received the nickname "Jughead" from his uncle, Richard Hicks, during one of their camping trips.

Prior to Covid, he attended a weekly Bible study at St. John's, he truly cherished his fellow believers and always admired their ability to help him understand the Bible. His relationship with Jesus Christ and regularly attending worship services were very important him.

He will be remembered for his distinctive laugh and appreciation for life's simple pleasures, such as sharing coffee and conversations with friends. His interests demonstrated his adventurous and creative nature; he was skilled in hand-crafting knives, bows, and walking sticks, as well as enjoying various outdoor pursuits.

In April of 2023, after suffering three strokes, Gary moved to Casper, Wyoming, so that Jody and Dan could help him out.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Donald and Frances "Garney" Allan, his daughter April Ann Allan, and his son Mark Kendal Allan.

He is survived by his daughter, Jody Halferty, and son-in-law, Dan Halferty of Casper, Wyoming; his sister, Donna Shelton, and brother-in-law, Dean Shelton; nephews Kevin Shelton and Bryan Shelton; and niece Hailee Shelton.

The family wishes to extend special thanks to all the staff at Garden Square Assisted Living in Casper, WY, and the compassionate caregivers at Central Wyoming Hospice.

No services are planned at this time. In memory of Gary, we encourage friends and family to share a cup of coffee, enjoy the outdoors, and cherish time spent with loved ones. Gary's laughter and generous spirit will be dearly missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.

His passing is not the end, but the beginning of a new and glorious chapter. While we grieve, we do so with hope, for we know that he is now in the presence of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to a hospice or charity of your choice in Gary's memory.