Gary A. Swartout, 76 of Aledo, died Sunday, August 30, 2026, at Arcadia of Aledo. Per Gary’s wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. Speer Funeral Home, Aledo, is assisting the family.
Gary was born on May 29, 1950, in Reynolds, Illinois, to Dale and Ferris (Strouse) Swartout. He graduated from Rockridge High School before starting his own drywall business in Arizona where he raised his family. Gary also did drywall work in Idaho before moving back to Illinois, where he worked construction in Bettendorf.
Gary enjoyed spending time outdoors camping and boating. He loved music and often attended concerts for all kinds of music, but especially classic rock and heavy metal.
Gary is survived by his children, Chad Swartout and Rhonda and Aaron Swartout-Olney; three grandchildren, Larz Reed, Sunni Olney, and Summer Olney; his former wife, Melody Dahl; a sister, Wanda Miller; and two nephews and a niece, Bruce Miller, Terry Miller, and Sue Muhlenburg. He was preceded in death by his parents.