Gary L. Michaels

Age 70 of Joliet, Illinois, formerly of Lowell, Indiana, died Friday, July 22, 2022 at the Parc of Joliet.

Born September 12, 1951 in Texas, Gary Lavern was a son of Harold and Eula Mae (Sellers) Michaels. Growing up in a military family, his family moved often and he lived in six different states and three different countries. Gary graduated from high school in Brookwood, Alabama, and following his graduation he served in the United States Army from 1972 until his honorable discharge in 1974.

Gary was self-employed as a special needs advocate for those with mental and physical disabilities. His work gained access to many in need of special assistance to care for themselves and their loved ones. Gary enjoyed being outdoors and spending time by the lake, and will be remembered as a great fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team.

Survivors include three daughters: Julie (Brent) Brockman of Wilmington, Illinois, Kari (Michael) Ehlers of Tinley Park, Illinois, and Melissa (Dave) Hahn of Minooka, Illinois; eight grandchildren: Jaxsen and Brayden Brockman, Korie Poe, Kyla and Kinsley Ehlers, and Miranda, Gianna, and Dominic Hahn; two brothers and one sister: Louis (Pam) Michaels of Peterson, Alabama, Raymond (Jackie) Michaels of Brookwood, Alabama, and Danna (Gary) Spaulding of Dwight, Illinois; as well as numerous nieces and nephews, and his dear friend, Dan Crull.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and two daughters: Crystal and Jessica Michaels.

Per his wishes, cremation rites were accorded.

Family and friends will gather at Reeves Funeral Home, 75 North Broadway Street (one block north of Illinois Route 113), in Coal City on Thursday, July 28, 2022 by 8:45 a.m. A funeral procession will depart at 9:00 a.m. for Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, where inurnment will full military honors will take place at 10:00 a.m.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Gary's memory to: Shady Oaks Camp, 16300 Parker Road, Homer Glen, Illinois 60491.

Family and friends are encouraged to sign the online guest book, upload photographs, and share Gary's memorial page via social media.

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Funeral Homes, Ltd. in Coal City (815-634-2125) www.ReevesFuneral.com