Gary Koester, 79, of Urbana, formerly of Paxton and Rantoul, passed away Friday, August 30, 2024 in his home.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at Baier Family Funeral Services, 406 E Pells St, Paxton with Rev. Dale Fjordbotten officiating. Burial will follow in Glen Cemetery, Paxton.

A visitation will be from 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home.

Gary was born February 6, 1945 in Watseka the son of John F. and Leona S. Schroeder Koester.

He is survived by a nephew, Kurt (Jennifer) Koester of Warren, New Jersey; a great-nephew, Ryan Koester; sister-in-law, Patsy Koester of Bridgewater, New Jersey and several cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, David J. Koester.

Gary graduated from Paxton High School. He obtained a degree in Accounting and Business Management from Illinois Commercial College. Gary worked with his father at their family business Paxton Concrete Products and upon his father's passing he took it over. He worked at Rogers Chevrolet in Rantoul for many years and most recently Serra Buick GMC in Champaign as a courtesy driver.

Gary attended Trinity Lutheran Church, Urbana. He enjoyed golfing, playing cards, especially Euchre and spending time with family. Gary was an avid Illini fan. He was a very kind and caring person.

Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Condolences and memories can be shared with the family at www.baierfuneralservices.com.