Gerald Gale of Freeport, IL, passed away on Sunday February 8, 2026. He was born on April 13, 1941, the son of Fred and Goldie (Bogenrief) Gale. He married Judy M. Johnson on July 2, 1960 in Freeport, at Embury Methodist Church. He was an avid Chicago Bears fan. He loved bowling, playing softball, and playing Texas Holdem. He worked at Structo for 10 years, then Kelly Springfield for 36 years. Most of all, he loved playing with his children and grandchildren.

Surviving are his wife Judy, one son Michael Gale of Sycamore, IL, one daughter Lisa Coleman of Freeport, three grandchildren: Brock (Ashley) Coleman of Freeport, Emily Samuelson of Freeport, and Jayden Gale of Sycamore; one great-grandson Cade Coleman of Freeport, one brother Fred (Wilma) Gale, two sisters: Sharon Symanek and Shirley (Gerald) Rucker; sister-in-law Linda (Duane) Benfer, brother-in-law Larry (Mary) Johnson, Victor (Kim) Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: William (Beatrice "Tuttie") Gale, Glen (Suzie) Gale, and Robert (Janet) Gale; sisters: Evelyn Squires and Dorothy Steel; and many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Sunday February 15, 2026 at 11 AM, followed by a memorial service at 12 noon, at the Schwarz Park Blvd Chapel, 608 S. Park Blvd in Freeport, IL. A luncheon will follow at the Freeport Eagle's Club.