Gary Lee Hansmeier 82, of Fort Myers, FL passed into eternal life January 5th, 2025. Gary was born December 11th, 1942 in Jacksonville, IL to parents Virgil M. Hansmeier (deceased in WWII 11/04/1944) and Lena Lucille (Peck) Sommer (deceased 01/10/2008). Gary grew up in Arenzville , IL until he was 12 (1953). He then moved to Fisher IL where he graduated from Fisher High School in 1960. He attended Bradley University graduating with a B.S. degree in January 1965.

In the early part of his career Gary worked for the State of IL, Allis Chalmers, Fairbanks Morse, and Warner Electric Brake. Gary spent the majority of his career at Sundstrand Aerospace. His primary positions were in the purchasing department. Gary was proud of his work, and always enjoyed the camaraderie and friendships that developed during his career. Gary retired in 1999 after 29 years. He then worked at CSO (an affiliate of Sundstrand) from 2000 to 2002. Gary couldn't sit idle in retirement so he joined the world of the self-employed by starting Handy Hanz. He performed handyman services from 2003 to 2008. Gary was often described as a workaholic. If he wasn't at work , he was working on something. He was still changing his own oil, and wrenching on his cars until recently.

From a very young age Gary had a passion for cars and motorcycles. He could remember every car and motorcycle he owned. Gary was still riding his Harley up until 2020 when he finally hung up his helmet. When he had a little free time he sometimes could be found on the golf course or on the sideline cheering on his sons in his younger years and grandkids later in life. Gary spent the last ten years of his life in sunny Florida relaxing by the pool at his house or hanging out with friends at the local VFW or Legion.

Gary is survived by his partner Lori Hratko ; former spouse Carolyn Hansmeier: his two sons Brett (Nina) Hansmeier of Cambridge, MA and Brian (Amy Stien) Hansmeier of Rockton, IL. Gary was predeceased by a 3rd son Todd Hansmeier (deceased 6/30/2014). Grandchildren Bryn, Brogan, Kiran Hansmeier. Siblings; Dale Sommer, Fred Sommer, Kathie Sommer, Virginia McCallister, Carol McCallister, and Thelma Hall, several nieces and nephews, as well as many other loving friends and family members.

A celebration of life will be held at the Roscoe VFW from 2- 5 pm on April 26th, 2025