Gary Drone
Gary Alan Drone, 89, of Springfield, passed away on Friday, August 29, 2025, at the Villa St. Benedict in Lisle, IL. He was born on October 2, 1935, in Springfield, to Dewey and Naomi Sexton Drone. He married Barbara Flesch on February 2, 1958, and she preceded him in death on January 11, 2022.
Gary is survived by two daughters, Diane (Don) LaBonte of Baton Rouge, LA, and Linda (Raymond) Haeger of Lisle, IL; four grandchildren, Katherine Harte of Chicago, Bridget (AJ) Calderone of Jamestown, NC, Kara (Joe) Sabin of Baton Rouge, LA, and Patrick Harte of Springfield, IL.; and five great-grandchildren. In addition to his beloved wife Barbara, Gary was preceded in death by his parents; and two brothers, Kingsley Drone, and David Drone.
Gary graduated from Lanphier High School in Springfield, class of 1953. He attended the University of Illinois in Champaign/Urbana, graduating in 1957 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
Following graduation, Gary began his career with Allis Chalmers. He retired after 36 years of service with then Fiat Allis. Gary’s career afforded him the opportunity to travel extensively both within the U.S. and internationally, included a yearlong assignment in Italy. He was awarded numerous patents for his engineering designs.
Gary proudly served his country in the United States Army and served six years with the Illinois National Guard.
Visitation: There will be no visitation, but friends are invited to attend the graveside service.
Graveside Service: Friends and family are invited to attend a graveside service that will be held on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Oak Ridge Cemetery with Chaplain Jeffrey Harter officiating. Military honors will be conducted at the graveside.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
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