Gary Hackler

 Gary Hackler passed away at home on February 1, 2026, surrounded by his wife and sons.

He was born on September 8, 1960, the second child to Donald and Maydellle Hackler. Gary grew up in Ridge Farm, Illinois. He always said he had the best childhood which was filled with many lifelong friendships. He graduated from Ridge Farm High School in 1978 and from Eastern Illinois University in 1982.

After college, he began his career in media, a profession he truly loved. Throughout his career, he held many positions, including on- air DJ at WITY, sales manager at WICD, station manager at WCIA, and account manager at D102. Gary received many accolades and was on many community committees throughout his life. The accomplishment he and his family were most proud of, however, was his involvement in Alcoholics Anonymous and his three and a half years of sobriety.

Gary enjoyed many things in life: going to Doug’s Gym, having lunch with clients and friends, visiting with people at Casey’s in the morning, playing or attending sporting events, listening to all genres of music, and attending concerts. People knew they were special to Gary because he would always end a conversation with “love you”. He often said he was blessed to have so many friends.

Gary fiercely loved his family. He and LaDonna (Bianchetta) shared 48 years together. After dating for five years, they married in May of 1983. He was incredibly proud of his sons: Joel (Cheri) and Cal (Justine). He loved being Papa to his three granddaughters: Maydelle Rose, Luanne Patricia, and Willa May. His brother Donnie ( Lisa ) was his best friend. Other special people in his life included mother-in-law Patricia Bianchetta, brother and sister in-laws Jim (Julie) Bianchetta and Steve (Tricia) Bianchetta. He was also blessed to have loving nieces and nephews who added so much joy to his life.

Gary’s family entrusted Sunset Home and Cremation Center’s Houghton-Leasure funeral Home in Georgetown, Illinois with arrangements.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Gary’s life on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from noon to 4 pm at the Georgetown Fair Banquet Hall at 413 N Seminary St, Georgetown, IL 61846. A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Honorary pallbearers are Allen Edwards, Craig Carrigan, Ruthie Harper, Doug Wadsworth, Tony Sellers, and Jay Hollingsworth.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request that donations be made to support Operation Honor Guard (https://givebutter.com/GaryHackler), a foundation that Gary has supported since its inception. The family also invites you to share a “Gary” story with them- memories that will be held in their hearts forever. Online condolences and fond memories can be shared with Gary’s family on his Tribute Wall at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com