FITCHBURG - Gary McKinley passed away peacefully on Monday, Nov. 28, 2022, at the age of 76, reunited in heaven with grandson, Maxwell Peterson, and parents, Jack and Agnes McKinley.

Born in Madison, Gary attended St. James School and Edgewood High School. He married his high school sweetheart, Joanne Bennett, and during their 54 years of happiness the couple was blessed with three children, Debi Peterson, Patrick McKinley (Stacey) and Christine Lucas (Brian); and five grandchildren, Maxwell and Jacob Peterson, Isaac and Austin McKinley and Cayla Lucas.

A machinist by trade for 41 years, Gary was also a Lieutenant in the Fitchburg volunteer fire department. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and hunting with the Bennett’s, his brothers, son and grandsons. Gary spent years coaching his children in sports and later in life, enjoyed cheering on his grandchildren in athletic and school activities. Throughout his life he enjoyed traveling with his family across the United States to national and state parks. He spent his retirement camping and hiking with his wife, watching grandkids and volunteering his avid gardening skills in various family members’ yards. Gary’s sense of humor, unending kindness and dedication to his family will be sorely missed by those who loved him.

Family and close friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial at GOOD SHEPHERD CATHOLIC PARISH AT ST. JAMES CHURCH, 1128 James Ct., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3, 2022, with family friend Monsignor Baxter presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of the Mass on Saturday.

The family would like to express their thanks to Beehive Assisted Living, Agrace HospiceCare, Agrace Adult Day Program and Oregon Senior Center Adult Day Program for years of wonderful care and loving attention. His caregivers were angels on earth whose support will not soon be forgotten.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. James School and Edgewood High School. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson Fitchburg

Funeral & Cremation Care

2950 Chapel Valley Road

(608) 442-5002

Gary W McKinley

July 16, 1946 - November 28, 2022

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