Gary William Gaines, 74, of Granite City, IL died on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at Christian Northeast Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

He was born on October 7, 1950 in Granite City, IL to William L. and Betty (Madsen) Gaines.

Gary married Norma (Miller) Hammett in Granite City, IL on August 8, 1980.

The loving husband and father retired from Granite City Steel after 37 years of service.  He was a life time member of Eagles Aerie 1126 in Granite City, a member of the Venice Social Club and a member of SOAR.  Gary was a past president of Local 4063 of the United Steel Workers and was an officer of the Greater Madison County Federation of Labor.  He enjoyed reading, working on computers, enjoying life after retirement.  Gary was involved with OSHA and he could tell you the labor history of Granite City Steel.

Gary is survived by his wife;  2 daughters:  Melissa (Brad) McCarty of Hawk Point, MO and Casey Bailey-Gaines of St. Louis, MO; a son, Erik (Amber) Baileygaines of East Alton, IL; 4 grandchildren:  Corey Craig, Bradley McCarty, Austin Baileygaines and Brocktin Baileygaines.  Also surviving are 3 brothers:  Michael (Sandie) Gaines of White Hall, IL, Richard (Cathy) Gaines of Maryville, IL and Robert (Annette) Gaines of Hobart, IN and 2 sisters:  Diane (Terry) Peach of Granite City and Karen Smart of Granite City.

A memorial visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, February 14, 2025 at St. John's UCC, 2901 Nameoki Rd in Granite City, IL.  A luncheon will follow the service.  The family asks that no flowers or live arrangements be brought. Contributions may be made to Essential Tremor Institute or USWA SOAR Chapter 34-7-2.

A celebration of life will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at the Venice Social Club.  Refreshments and fellowship to follow.

Professional services entrusted to the care of Wojstrom Funeral Home & Crematory in Granite City, IL.

Online guestbook and obituary available at www.wojstrom.com