Gary I. Hanson Jr.

Gary I. Hanson Jr., fondly known as "Gator" and " The King" to his family, left us far too soon on May 19, 2025, in his birthplace of Rockford, Illinois. Born on September 25, 1966, the son of Gary Hanson Sr. and Linda Yarbrough. Gary grew up to be a kindhearted individual known for his mellow demeanor, humor, and ability to go with the flow.

Gary graduated from Jefferson High School in 1986. He went on to build a career starting off with managing at Factory Card Outlet and transitioning to a production worker at Chrysler, and finished as a merchandiser for Keurig Dr. Pepper, where he was appreciated by colleagues for his willingness to help anyone. He had a deep passion for sports, frequently traveling to attend bowling tournaments and baseball games. He was a dedicated coach for his daughter Hailey's school sports, including bowling and the girls softball. In his leisure time, Gary enjoyed playing slow pitch softball and golf, and was an avid fan of the San Francisco 49ers and the Giants. He cherished bowling, starting with family in 1985, and was proud to have bowled multiple 300 games as a member of the Sportsmen League at Cherry Bowl.

Gary's personality shone brightly during his favorite holiday, Halloween, when he loved dressing up, handing out candy, and playing pranks on all. His love for driving his Jeep Wrangler while listening to classic rock was well-known among friends and family. He was a regular at Arby's, where he proudly held the title of their biggest fan. Gary was not just a proud father to his daughter, Hailey, but also a special uncle to his nieces and nephews. He made everyone feel valued with his kind-hearted nature and was always ready to lend a helping hand. He will be missed by those who knew and loved him, and his joyful spirit will remain in the hearts of many.

Gary is survived by those who loved him most, daughter, Hailey Miles; granddog, Piper; son-in-law, Cody Miles; sisters, Cindy (Scott) Kuhnau, Shirley (Dean) Franks, and Lori Kosowiec; nieces/nephews, Brad, Britt, Justin, Kayla, Colten, Crystal, Bradey "B", Sydney, Jemell, and Jr.; numerous great nieces and nephews; stepmom, Paula Hanson; many cousins, especially his special cousin, Debbie Lindstrom; Haileys mother, Monica (Carlos) Gonzalez and their daughter, Izzi; and many childhood and bowling league friends. He is predeceased by his parents; stepdad, William "Bill" Kosowiec; four legged daughter, Angel; many aunts and uncles; and his grandparents. 

A Memorial Service will be on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 4:30 P.M. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, 1860 S. Mulford Road, Rockford, IL 61108. A visitation will be prior to the service starting at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family to be established at a later date. 

The family invites everyone to please wear their favorite sports team apparel to the service.