Curtis William Gard

Curtis William Gard, 72 of New Canton, Illinois, passed away on Monday, March 3, 2025, at Barry Healthcare & Senior Living in Barry, Illinois. He was born August 22, 1952, in Hannibal, Missouri, to William T. & Martha Elizabeth (Davis) Gard. He married Sherry McKee on April 22, 1978 at the Pleasant Hill Church of Christ in Pleasant Hill, IL, and she survives.

After graduating in 1970 from West Pike High School, Curt attended Western Illinois University in Macomb, Illinois. Curt enlisted into the United States Army in 1972 and was honorably discharged in 1974 with the rank of Specialist 4th Class. In 1975 Curt went to work for Freesen Inc., beginning his career as a laborer and went on to become a superintendent, retiring in the fall of 2014. He loved being with family and friends at their cabin on the river, making gigantic bonfires and playing Cincinnati golf. Curt loved NASCAR- he was a fan of Dale Earnhardt, Sr. He also loved hanging out with friends that became family at the Copperhead, always having a daily joke ready for the girls. He also enjoyed playing Euchre and Pitch but his true love was red Ford trucks. Curt was a simple man, and easy going, didn’t believe in extravagance, and loved his wife dearly.

Survivors include; his wife, Sherry Gard; a sister, Mary (John) Leeper of Colleyville, Texas; a niece, Lisa (Berry) Adams; a nephew, Gard (Tracie) Leeper; in-laws, Kevin McKee, Steve (Donna) McKee, Bruce (Barb) McKee; and several nieces & nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William & Martha Gard.

Cremation rites have been accorded and no services will be held. Memorials are suggested to the New Canton Methodist Church. Online condolences may be left to the family at www.nieburfh.com. Niebur Funeral Chapel in Barry, Illinois, is handling the arrangements.

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