Gary Lynn Salyers, 78, of Carthage, Illinois, formerly of Leland, Illinois, passed away on
Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at Graham Hospital in Canton, Illinois.
Gary was born on July 11, 1947, in Kahoka, Missouri, the son of James and Lorine
(Young) Salyers. On June 3, 1967, he was united in marriage to the love of his life
Claudia Jeanne Spencer. She preceded him in death in 2020.
Gary was of the Methodist faith and a member of the Hancock County Gun Club. He
was employed as a plant supervisor in Illinois, Iowa and Indiana, starting his career at
Keokuk Die Casting in 1968 and retiring from West Irving Die Cast in 2009. Always a
hard worker, Gary returned to work part-time through retirement at American Machining.
He would be found relaxing at the river with a fishing pole in his hands and a friend by
his side or playing cards until the wee hours of the morning. He was an avid Chicago
Cubs and WWE wrestling fan. Gary’s biggest joy in life was spoiling and loving his
grandchildren and would say a little prayer every night for his family.
Gary is survived by his daughter Jeannie (Brad) Gilpin of Keokuk; five grandchildren:
Destiney and Kaylee Gilpin, and Brittin, Brooke and Sean Hoekema; his great-
grandchild Clark Gilpin; two sisters: Gail Westercamp of Bonaparte, Iowa, and Sharon
(Eric) Sloat of Carthage; his chihuahuas Diego and Julio; and many nieces, nephews
and cousins.
Gary is preceded in death by his parents; his wife Claudia; his daughter Kelly Hoekema;
his sister Delores “Arlene” Goss; and three brothers: James, Charles and Marvin
Salyers.
Gary’s life will be celebrated with a graveside service at 12:30 pm on Friday, May 29,
2026, at Oakwood Cemetery in Hamilton, Illinois. Visitation will be held from 10 am to
12 pm on Friday, May 29, at Printy Funeral Home in Hamilton.
Memorials may be directed to the Hancock County Gun Club or P.A.W.S.
Tributes and condolences may be left at www.printyfuneralhome.com.
Printy Funeral Home of Hamilton is in charge of arrangements.