Gary R. Brelsfoard, 78, of Maroa passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on January 26, 2026. Gary was born July 13, 1947 in Decatur to Homer and Nina (Miller) Brelsfoard and was raised on the family farm in Maroa. He married Sharon L. Ketterer on June 26, 1971 in Medford, NJ. Gary was a 1965 graduate of Maroa-Forsyth High School. He was a Staff Sargeant in the United States Air Force serving from 1966-1970 and was stationed at the missile sight at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey. After his military service, Gary returned to Maroa, Illinois. He co-managed the Shell Service Station with Tommy Marlatt and later owned it independently. In 1974, Gary began farming the family ground. He also served as Highway Commissioner of Maroa Township and held that position twice for a total of 18 years. Gary continued to farm until his retirement in 2015 when his son, Jason took over the farm. Gary’s heart never left the farm as he continued to join his son each farming season. Gary enjoyed many hobbies including racing, fishing and trap shooting. He also enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. Gary was a member of the New Day Community Church, Warrensburg Gun Club and American Legion.  

He is survived by his wife Sharon of 54 years, his three children, Lacy (Jeff) Houska of Shelbyville, Audrey (Joe) Garkey-Magnuson of Ottawa, and Jason (Sara) Brelsfoard of Maroa. Ten grandchildren, Ben Houska, Eli Houska, Emma Houska, Chloe (Benson) Samuel, Isabel Garkey, Riley Brelsfoard, Mason (Shelby) Brelsfoard, Ally Jahns, Robert (Lauren) Enlow and Jayden Enlow. Great granddaughter, Lainey Brelsfoard. Also surviving is sister Barbara Anderson of Argenta and brother Stanley (Marcia) Brelsfoard of Decatur. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, infant daughter Michelle Brelsfoard, brother, Richard Brelsfoard, brother-in-law, Larry Anderson, brother-in-law, Charles Martin and son-in-law Sean Garkey.

A memorial service to celebrate the life of Gary R. Brelsfoard will be 10 AM on Saturday, January 31, 2026 at New Day Community Church, Decatur, IL with Pastor Bruce Jacobs officiating. Burial will follow at Graceland Cemetery, Decatur, IL with Military Honors. Visitation will be from 4 PM to 7 PM, Friday, January 30, 2026 at the church. Calvert Funeral Home, Maroa, IL is in charge of arrangements.  Memorials may be given to New Day Community Church or the Macon County Honor Guard.

The family would like to thank Town Square Hospice, Elara Caring, Brittany Butler and Tori Canary for caring for Gary.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com