Gary L. Overocker, 76, of New Munster, passed away Monday, March 16, 2026, at his home.
Born in Streator, Illinois, on February 15, 1950, he was the son of Edgar and Violet (nee Hinshaw) Overocker. His early life was spent in Streator, IL, and Saunimen, IL. He graduated from Saunimen High School and later graduated from Gateway Technical Institute as a certified master mechanic. Gary served in the US Navy from 1969 until 1975, where he was stationed in Japan as a radio mechanic. On June 30, 1995, he was united in marriage to Irene Taylor. She preceded him in death on November 16, 2016. He has been a resident of New Munster since 1996.
Gary worked as a master mechanic and was a member of Rock River Thresheree. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, and riding his Harley. He also loved building and maintaining his antique steam engine.
Gary is survived by his children, Timothy (Janele) Overocker, Thomas (Kristina) Overocker, Karen Overocker and Step-son Ronald Taylor; grandchildren, Audery Overocker, Grant Overocker, Paton Overocker, and Keegan Overocker; siblings, Larry (Janet) Overocker and Susie (Daryl) Crow; girlfriend and partner, Karen Reega-Danzer; and first wife Elizabeth Overocker. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Daniel and James, and his second wife Irene.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Rock River Thresheree.
A gathering to celebrate Gary’s life will take place from 2 pm to 5 pm on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at Ron and Gary’s shop in New Munster. (Contact family for the address of the shop.)
