Gary Gyllenswan

Gary William Gyllenswan, 86, of Rockford, Illinois, passed away peacefully in his home on May 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Born on March 4, 1940, in Rockford, Gary was the son of William and Margaret Gyllenswan and spent his entire life in the community he proudly called home.

Gary graduated from Rockford East High School before serving his country in the United States Marine Corps Reserves. On June 24, 1961, he married the love of his life, Marjorie “Marge” Newkirk, at Trinity Lutheran Church. Together, they shared nearly 64 wonderful years of marriage, building a life centered around family, hard work, laughter, and unwavering love. Marge preceded him in death on March 26, 2025.

Gary was known throughout the Rockford area for his strong work ethic, mechanical talent, and ability to fix just about anything. He owned and operated Rockford Auto Body for many years, later running Gyllenswan Appraisals, and also worked at City Hembrough Body Shop and several other auto body shops throughout the Rockford area over the years. Whether repairing cars, working on engines, or helping a friend in need, Gary took pride in his craftsmanship and was always willing to lend a hand.

Beyond his work, Gary dedicated countless hours to coaching youth sports, impacting generations of local children through football, basketball, and baseball. He coached football and basketball at Ken-Rock Community Center and baseball at Roy Gayle Sports Complex. He loved mentoring young athletes and treasured the friendships and memories made along the way.

Gary enjoyed life’s simple pleasures and lived life to the fullest. In his younger years, he loved golfing, fishing, snow skiing, racing cars, and spending time at Rockford Speedway. He greatly enjoyed bowling and spent many years participating in local bowling leagues, where he shared countless laughs, stories, and friendships. Gary and Marge also spent many wonderful years at their cabin on Lake Ripley, creating lifelong memories with family and friends.

He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs and rarely missed a game. He and Marge enjoyed trips to the casino, quiet evenings watching the Cubs, birdwatching from the porch, and relaxing together while watching game shows. Gary had a special love for dogs throughout his life, especially Gracie and his beloved companion CoCo, who brought him comfort and companionship this past year. He also loved visiting Finnie, Mike’s French Bulldog, and spending time watching the dogs play together in the dog park.

Above all else, Gary was devoted to his family. He attended every sporting event and activity for his sons and later found tremendous joy in cheering on his grandchildren, Savanna Grace Gyllenswan and Max Gyllenswan. He was endlessly proud of the young adults they were becoming and treasured every moment spent with them.

Over the last six months, Gary shared a particularly special bond with his granddaughter, Savanna, who spent countless hours by his side. Living together during that time, the two enjoyed simple moments that became treasured memories — trips to the grocery store, cooking and sharing meals together, nightly milkshakes, watching game shows, and sitting on the porch talking and relaxing together. Her love, companionship, and care brought Gary great comfort and happiness during his final months.

Gary is survived by his two sons, Jeffery Gyllenswan and Michael (Lori) Gyllenswan; his cherished grandchildren, Savanna and Max Gyllenswan; his beloved dog, CoCo; his brother, Tom (Mary) Gyllenswan; his brothers-in-law, Dick and Tom Newkirk; many treasured nieces and nephews; and his lifelong friends Gary Bjerke, Tom Cox, and Bob Fredrickson.  He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marjorie Gyllenswan; his parents, William and Margaret Gyllenswan; his in-laws, William and Ruby Newkirk; his sister, Beverly Baumgardner; his sisters-in-law, Judy, Salley, and Jeanette; and his brothers-in-law, Bob and Ron.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses, doctors, and staff at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital for the compassionate care and kindness shown to Gary and his family.

Gary will be remembered for his kindness, humor, loyalty, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the lessons he taught, and the memories that will forever be cherished.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, June 13, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 p.m. at the Hoffman House/Scoreboard Lounge in the Hoffman Room at 7550 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108.  

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