Gary Kadell
Carrollton |
Gary Lee Kadell, 74, passed away unexpectedly at 11:30 p.m., Saturday, March 1, 2025 at his home in Jersey County.
Born on January 31, 1951, in Carrollton, Illinois, he was the son of the late William and Vivian (Marshall) Kadell. From an early age, Gary’s warm spirit and love for people shined through in everything he did.
Gary proudly served his country with the United States Army before embarking on a career as a truck driver, ending his career employed with Dixon Distributing. His work allowed him to meet new people and share stories – something he truly cherished.
His greatest passion, however, was music. A gifted singer and guitarist, he spent 20 years as a member of the Hickory Grove Band, where he found joy not only in the music itself but in the connections he made with those who listened. Whether performing on stage, strumming his guitar at a gathering, or simply humming a tune, music was an extension of his soul.
He had an undeniable way of making everyone feel welcome, and his kindness and humor left a lasting impact on all who knew him. He never met a stranger, and his fun-loving, lighthearted nature made him the kind of person people were naturally drawn to.
Beyond his music, Gary was a proud member of both the Jerseyville American Legion Post #492 and the Knights of Columbus in Jerseyville, organizations that allowed him to connect with others in meaningful ways. Above all, Gary was a devoted partner, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. His love for his family was unwavering, and he took immense pride in his children and their families.
He is survived by his children and their spouses, Jeremy and Sara Kadell of Jerseyville, and Mattie and Nathan Shelton of Shipman; four grandchildren, Kayla and Jason Kadell, and Steiger and Owen Shelton; his loving companion of 31 years, Nita Vespa; a sister, Sandy Weigler of Jerseyville; and a brother and sister-in-law, David and Martha Kadell of Jerseyville. He is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Shelly (Mark) Kanallakan, Kevin (Mindy) Hanneken, Jessica (Tim) Dean, Katie Jackson and John (Caitlin) Kadell; as well as a host of extended family and dear friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Terry Weigler.
A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at the Jerseyville American Legion Post #492, where friends and family are invited to share memories, laughter, and music in honor of Gary’s life.
Memorials may be given to Jerseyville American Legion Post #492 Color Guard, in care of Crawford Funeral Home, 1308 State Highway 109, Jerseyville, IL 62052, who is assisting the family with arrangements.
Though his time with us was far too short, Gary’s kindness, music, and infectious spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. His song may have ended, but his melody will never fade.
Memories may be shared with the family by visiting www.crawfordfunerals.com.
Crawford Funeral Home
