George H. "Howie" Boltz

Age 64 of Gardner, Illinois, died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 5, 2023 at his home.

Born May 23, 1959 in Hinsdale, Illinois, George Howard was a son of George and Minnie (Jernigan) Boltz. He was raised in Hinsdale and graduated from Downers Grove High School. Howie worked for over 30 years as a welder and metal fabricator for Metaltek in University Park, Illinois, and most recently with Caterpillar in Pontiac, Illinois. He also previously served as a volunteer fireman with the Gardner Fire Department. Howie had too many hobbies to mention, but he was particularly fond of motorcycles and vintage cars. He especially enjoyed retrofitting vintage cars with racing engines, and helping his friends make parts to use on their own cars. Howie loved a good DIY project, had grown an appreciation for flower gardening, and loved classic and western films. He will be remembered for his level head, calm demeanor, and simply being a nice guy who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.

Survivors include his wife, Geralynn Funk of Gardner; two children: Kelly Funk of Piper City, Illinois and Jackson Boltz of Gardner; one granddaughter, Rosalina Moe; one brother and one sister: Gregory (Melissa)Boltz of Downers Grove, Illinois and Sandy (Bob) Boege of Shorewood, Illinois; and his nieces and nephews: Ashley, Megan, Mike, and Matt.

Howie was preceded in death by his parents, and one niece, Cassie Boltz.

Per his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded, and the family will receive friends for a memorial visitation on Friday, August 11, 2023 at Reeves Funeral Home, 203 North Liberty Street, in Gardner from 4:00 p.m. until the time of memorial services at 6:00 p.m.

Preferred memorials may be made as gifts in Howie's name to the charity of the donor's choosing.

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

Cremation services and memorial arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory in Gardner (815) 237-2526.