Garry L. Hellman
- Visitation Dates and Times
Monday, June 22, 2026, from 9:00 – 11:30 a.m.
- Visitation Location
St. John UCC ~ Breese
- Service Date
Monday, June 22, 2026
- Service Time
11:30 a.m.
- Service Location
St. John UCC ~ Breese
- Full Obituary
Garry L. Hellman, age 76, of Breese, passed away Monday, June 15, 2026, at his home surrounded by family. He was born May 6, 1950, in Breese, a son of the late Arthur W. and Vernell (nee Dorries) Hellman.
Garry married Anne Hellman (nee Thoele) on October 4, 1974, at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Germantown and she survives in Breese. He is also survived by his sister, Beverly Hellman of Breese; sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Carolyn Hellman of Jourdanton, TX, Sandy Hellman of Breese, Allen (friend, JoAnn Sellers) Thoele of Germantown, and Mary Thoele of Breese; aunt, Pearl Rosen of Breese; and nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.
Garry was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Leroy Hellman and Gordon Hellman; parents-in-law, Alvin and Mary Ann (nee Fuehne) Thoele; and brother-in-law, John Thoele.
Garry retired from General Motors in Wentzville, Missouri, following a long career in production. He was a member of St. John United Church of Christ in Breese and was also a proud member of the United Auto Workers Union.
A true car enthusiast, Garry had a lifelong passion for anything with wheels and an engine. He especially enjoyed restoring cars and riding motorcycles, taking great pride in the craftsmanship and dedication each project required. NASCAR was another favorite pastime, and he rarely missed the opportunity to cheer on his favorite drivers, Dale Earnhardt Jr. and Kyle Larson.
Beyond his love of automobiles, Garry found joy in many other hobbies. He enjoyed flying RC airplanes, tending to his garden and vegetable patch, and trying his luck during visits to the casino. He also treasured the memories of owning the thoroughbred racehorse, "Ralph's Blue Buck," which competed at Fairmount Park and Arlington Park. Whether working in the garage, enjoying the outdoors, or spending time with family and friends, Garry embraced life with enthusiasm and an appreciation for the simple pleasures that brought him happiness.
A memorial service will be held Monday, June 22, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. at St. John UCC in Breese with Pastor Kenneth Schafer officiating. Interment will take place at a later date.
Visitation will be Monday, June 22, 2026, from 9:00 – 11:30 a.m. at St. John UCC in Breese
In lieu of flowers, plants, or other gifts, memorials may be made to St. John UCC and will be received at the visitation or by mail at Moss Funeral Home, 535 N. 5th Street, Breese, IL 62230, who is serving the family.
