Obituary of Gary A. Shawmeker

Gary A. Shawmeker, age 71 of Joliet, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, June 15, 2023. Gary was born December 31, 1951 in Joliet, he was the son of Billie and Lillian (Lake) Shawmeker, and was a graduate of Lockport Township Central High School.

Gary retired from ComEd Dresden Station as a Fuel Handler after 25 years of service.

An avid fan of the Chicago Cubs, Bears and Bulls, he loved fishing, playing cards, and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Surviving are his beloved wife of 53 years, Trish (McGowan) Shawmeker; his loving children, Kelly (Jason) Fortune, Tammy (Curly) McGraw and Bradley (Lori) Shawmeker;  four adoring grandchildren, Cailee and Cayden McGraw and Jeremy and Ashley Shawmeker; three sisters, Barbara (the late Dick) Zielke, Diane (the late Tom) Hogan and Paula Spurgeon; one brother, Phillip (Karen) Shawmeker; numerous nieces and nephews; and his best friend and nephew, Chuck Swanson.

He was preceded by his parents; three sisters, Michelle Spurgeon, Billie Shawmeker and Roberta (Jack) Barney; and a brother, Jerry, in infancy.

Memorials in his name to the Will County Humane Society would be appreciated.

Visitation for Gary A. Shawmeker will be held on Tuesday, June 20, 2023 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Fred C. Dames Funeral Home, 3200 Black (at Essington Rd.), Joliet, IL.  In celebration of Gary’s life, please dress casual or in your favorite Cubs, Bears or Bulls attire.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, June 21, 2023, at 9:00 a.m., from the funeral home to St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Woodlawn Memorial Park.

For more information please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute where you can share a favorite memory or leave a condolence at www.fredcdames.com