Gary J. Schwaegel, age 72, of Belleville, died peacefully at 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at his residence, surrounded by his family.

Gary was born July 7, 1948 in Belleville, the son of the late Raymond and Anita (Geiss) Schwaegel.

He was a 1965 graduate of Althoff Catholic High School. He was a veteran of the United States Army and served during the Vietnam War. After his service in the war, he returned home and served his community by becoming a Belleville Fire Fighter, where he continued to serve for another 28 years.

Gary was an avid fisherman. When he wasn’t fishing he enjoyed making fishing lures for Obie Tackle. He was also a member/board member at Southside Improvement Association for many years, where he enjoyed many beers.

Gary is survived by two children: Jolene (David) Pierpoint of Smithton, IL and Christopher (Allison) Schwaegel of Millstadt, IL; and three grandchildren: Nick Schwaegel, Jason Schwaegel and Robert Pierpoint.

Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Dennis Schwaegel.

Donations can be made in his name to Backstoppers.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.