Gary M. Stevens, Jr.

Gary Stevens, 55, passed away on February 11, 2023.  He was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, the eldest of 3 sons.  Moving many times in his early years, he married his beloved wife Kay and welcomed their blessed daughter Layne, then comfortably settled in Mokena, Illinois for 19 years, eventually transitioning to Columbia, Connecticut to be closer to family.

Gary had many talents and interests, including cars and mechanics, SCUBA diving (earning Master SCUBA Diver Trainer designation), boating (captaining the 39’ Sea Ray Express Layne), bicycles and mountain biking, woodwork (including pen-making and epoxy table-making and crafts), and cooking.

He was a Diesel Mechanic turned entrepreneur, starting a stamped and colored concrete business.  He also learned to expertly drive a semi-trailer truck and repair bicycles.  His final passion was woodwork, as he was creative, artistic and skilled with his hands, starting G. Michael Design, and repairing bicycles on the side.

He is survived by his beloved wife and daughter, father Gary Stevens Sr. and brother Thomas Stevens, beloved Aunt Katherine Benson and Cousins Wendy Cardella and Eileen Hurtado along with their wonderful families. His in-laws loved him dearly as well—father-in-law Stephan Harlow, late mother-in-law Louise Harlow, siblings-in-law Jen and Jon Wortmann and Steve and Julie Harlow and niece and nephew Faith and Luke.  He was loved by cousins and aunts on Kay’s side (Carolyn and Norma) and nieces and nephews on Gary’s side.  He is predeceased by his beloved mother, Ann Stevens, and brother, Christopher Stevens.

Kay and Layne would like to express our gratitude for the love and support and kindness from family and friends during our grief.  Gary is deeply missed.  He was bold and passionate and so proud of his daughter. We cherish the good memories of his presence. We praise God that he is at peace with Jesus.

A Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, June 9, 2023 from 3:00 – 6:00 pm at the Will County Forest Preserve, Route 30 and Wolf Road (west), Mokena, Illinois.