Gary William Shilling, age 68, of Sidney, Michigan, passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family. Known to many as “Deadeye,” and to others simply as Gary, Honey, Dad, or Grandpa (Papa), Gary lived a life full of laughter, hard work, and adventure.

Gary spent 18 years working at Electrolux and another 18 years at Montcalm Community College, building a reputation as a man who could fix anything. He loved to create things that worked, and he created unique and wonderful things that those who knew him will treasure.

For 30 years, Gary was married to his soulmate, Phyllis Shilling, and together they built a loving life and family. Gary had a gift for showing everyone around him how to enjoy life and have fun — whether he was out farming, riding his dirt bike, or playing music. He loved playing the drums and jamming to music. And of course, no good time was complete without a cold Coors Light in hand.

Gary was a loving father who cherished the time he spent with his children. Some of his most treasured moments were spent outdoors, teaching his kids how to fish and hunt and sharing with them the things he loved most. Those lessons went far beyond fishing and hunting—they were memories, traditions, and special moments that his children will carry with them for the rest of their lives.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Robert Shilling; his mother, Virginia Louise Shilling; his father-in-law, Donald A. Garbow; and his brother-in-law, Russ Fowler.

Gary is survived by his wife, Phyllis Shilling; his daughters, Kasey Shilling (Nate Wolfgang), Amy Shilling Houghton (Mike Houghton), and Hollie Shilling; his son, Taylor Shilling; and his stepchildren, Edward Vedder, Elizabeth Rohn (Kevin Rohn), and Cindy Hacko (Randy Hacko), along with his beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his sister, Mary Reed, of Belding; his brother, Robert Shilling, of Stanton; his mother-in-law, Shirley Ann Garbow; his sisters-in-law, Cheryl Fowler of Ithaca, Dawn Phenix Stoll (Ken Stoll) of Sheridan, and Bonnie Johansen (Brian Johansen) of Greenville; along with many nieces and nephews and many childhood and lifelong friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, James Robert Shilling; his mother, Virginia Louise Shilling; his father-in-law, Donald A. Garbow; and his brother-in-law, Russ Fowler.

Gary will be deeply missed by his family, friends, bandmates, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. Though he is no longer with us, the lessons he taught, the music he played, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of those he loved.

A celebration of life will be held from 2-6 p.m. on Friday, November 13, 2026, at the Sheridan Community Center, located at 205 St. Clair Street., Sheridan, Michigan 48884.

To send a message of sympathy to the family, sign Gary’s online guest book, or to share a favorite memory, please visit: www.MichiganCremation.com

Cremation arrangements are entrusted to Christiansen’s Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Greenville, 616-754-5638.