Gary L. Kilstrom

Gary L. Kilstrom, 67, of Kewanee, passed away on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at his home. Gary was born on February 21, 1958, the son of Carl P. Kilstrom and Muriel R. Calcutt in Kewanee. He graduated from Kewanee High School in 1976 and went on to Black Hawk Community College, where he obtained his mechanics certificate. Gary married Carol M. O’Neill on September 19, 1975 at the First Baptist Church in Kewanee; she survives.

Gary is also survived by two sons, Chad (Mindy) Kilstrom, Kewanee, Andy (Jenny Tye) Kilstrom, Kewanee; a daughter, Melanie Cox, Kewanee; four grandchildren, Ryan Kilstrom, Emmalee Kilstrom, Savannah Cox, Elaina Grace Cox; a brother, Carl (Jeanette) Kilstrom, Erie, IL; and a sister, Susan (Delbert) Calhoun, Kewanee. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Christine Curry-Kilstrom; and his father and mother in law, James “Jim” and Betty O’Neill.

He was previously a shoe cobbler, welder, and worked for the City of Kewanee as an operator. He was self employed with O.K. Trash Pickup for over fifty years.

Gary enjoyed riding motorcycles with Carol. He also enjoyed eagle nest watching in the Quad Cities. Gary was an avid collector of Pepsi memorabilia and belonged to the Pepsi Club in Branson, MO and served as vice president of the club in Des Moines, IA. He loved tinkering on projects around the house and built his own lawn roller. He was an avid hockey fan his entire life.

Visitation will be Friday, August 8, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 pm at Golnick-Schueneman Funeral Home. Memorial services will follow at 6:00 pm on Friday, August 8, 2025 at the funeral home. Chaplain Jordan Knight will officiate. A private burial will take place at a later date at Pleasant View Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the Stead Family Children Hospital in Iowa City. Please leave an online condolence for Gary’s family at www.golnickschuenemanfh.com.

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