Gary L. Vonckx, age 76, passed away on Wednesday March 5, 2025, in Cookeville, TN.  

Gary was born May 24, 1948, in Fort Pierce, FL. He graduated from University of Central Florida in Orlando. After graduation he enlisted in the US Navy for six years and served aboard the USS California. He worked for Unisys, a computer corporation, and later retired from the City of Port St. Lucie, FL after 20 years. Gary was an avid surfer when he lived in Florida and later transferred that passion to golf. He moved to Smithville in 2006 and was a member of Allen's Chapel Church.

He was a devoted husband, stepfather and grandfather and made a tremendous impact on their lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents, R. Lloyd and Elizabeth Shimoneck Vonckx.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Kitty Vonckx of Smithville; two step-children, Julie Kenny of Smithville and Mike Sullivan of Lake Mary, Florida; four grandchildren, Christian Sullivan, in the US Air Force in New Mexico, Anilyse and Natalie Sullivan of Lake Mary, Florida, and Jonathan (Ashley) Morris; three great-grandsons, Colton, Owen and Mason Morris of Smithville.

Funeral service was held Monday, March 10, 2025, at DeKalb Funeral Chapel with Grant Goodwin officiating and interment followed in DeKalb Cemetery.

Pallbearers included Mike Sullivan, Jonathan Morris, Tyler Taylor, Richard Close, Justin Dunaway, and Bill Conger.

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