Gary Francis Soseman

Gary F. Soseman, 63 of Campbell’s Island, passed away Friday, December 27, 2024 at his home.

Gary Francis Soseman was born June 20, 1961 to Charles and Agnes (Baele) Soseman, the second youngest of nine children. He attended St. Anne School in East Moline, graduating in 1975. He graduated from Alleman High School in 1979. During high school, he worked at Lonnie’s Standard. This experience led him to pursue a career in mechanics. He attended Wyoming Technical Institute and graduated in 1981. After graduation from WyoTech, Gary worked for International Truck Shop before moving on to Van’s Automotive Repair where he stayed until starting his own business, Gary's Automotive. He joined the Campbell's Island volunteer fire department as a fireman in 1985 and became the fire chief in early Spring 1992, retiring from that position in 2024. As a proud lifelong resident of Campbell's Island, Gary worked tirelessly for his community, often found on the frontlines during flooding season. Gary was a firm man with a heart of gold, willing to help anyone, especially when they were working to help themselves. He is remembered as being a kind business owner, often allowing people to pay their bills as they were able. It was said of him that he was a great auto mechanic yet a better man.

 He is survived by his sisters, Judy (Mike) Duncan, Kathy Riddell, Connie Owens, and Cheryl McKittrick; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Agnes (Baele) Soseman; sister, Patricia Holliday; and brothers, Thomas, George Allen, and Monsignor Richard Soseman.

 A visitation will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2025 at Sullivan-Ellis Mortuary in East Moline, from 3pm-7pm, with the Holy Rosary at 3pm. A funeral will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, January 3, 2025 at St. Anne Church in East Moline.  Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in East Moline.

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