John Galey

John Galey, 90, of Hutsonville, IL, passed away on April 2, 2024, at Deaconess Midtown Hospital in Evansville, IN. Born on December 28, 1933, in Casey, IL, his early years were spent in this close-knit community, where he graduated from Casey High School in the Class of 1952. His patriotic spirit led him to serve his country as an artilleryman in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958, stationed in Germany, where he also had the honor of driving generals in jeeps.

After his military service, John's work ethic shone brightly as he started at the Ettelbrick Shoe Factory before transitioning to a long-standing career at Briggs Pottery. There, he dedicated 27 years in the brass shop, eventually rising to the role of supervisor. His resilience was evident as he moved to work in the plant's foundry, laboring until his body signaled it was time to rest. Even after his retirement, John's supportive nature was apparent as he helped his beloved wife, Barb, in her Avon business, assisting with bagging and delivery tasks.

Outside of work, John was known for his love of the great outdoors. A true fisherman at heart, he cherished the days spent on the Wabash River, whether it was building a fire on the banks or fishing its waters in a boat built by his son, Adam. His hands, skilled and sure, crafted dough balls from Wheaties for catching carp, which he then resourcefully used to fertilize his thriving garden. His green thumb didn't end there; from fruit trees to rose gardens, John cultivated beauty and sustenance in equal measure.

An avid rock collector, John's fascination with geology began in the 1980s, leading him to amass an impressive collection of stones, such as crazy lace, tiger eyes, and his favorite, agates. This hobby took him across the nation, a journey that matched his adventurous spirit. A certified diver, John explored underwater worlds, collecting treasures for his saltwater tank, and locally, he enjoyed diving for golf balls-a testament to his multifaceted interests. For a time, he delved into the worlds of candle-making and crafting glassware from wine bottles.

More than anything, John's tenacious spirit was evident in his health battles. Remarkably, he surpassed expectations, having endured eight years of dialysis. Time and again, his indomitable will saw him through each challenge life brought him. His family and friends will remember him as a fighter-a man whose body may have given out, but whose mind and spirit never faltered. His departure is a loss to all who knew him, but the stories of the spirited life of John Galey will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

He is survived by his children & spouses, Tory Galey (Hutsonville, IL), Keith & Billie Messer (Oklahoma City, OK), Adam & Denise Galey (Robinson, IL), Erick Galey (Grand Junction, CO) and Debbie Tolle (Hutsonville, IL); by his grandchildren, Luke Tolle, Christy & Chris Wampler, Tyler & Amanda Galey, Jessica Galey, Nikki & Joey Glosser, Jamie Montya, Justin Galey, Shaunna Herrick, Nikki Cox, Nathanael Cox, and Samuel Cox; by several great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild; by his sister, Rose Galey (Casey, IL); and by several nieces and nephews.

He married Barbara (Morris) Galey on June 6, 1969, and she preceded him in death on September 1, 2020. He was also preceded in death by his parents, John Riley Galey & Della Marie (Gallatin) Galey; his brothers, Gene Galey and Don Galey; by his brother-in-law, Bob Morris; and his grandson, Dakota Galey.

A time of visitation will be held from 2:30-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 6th, at the Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson. Funeral services will immediately follow and be held at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, with Celebrant Curt Goodwine officiating. For those unable to attend, a live stream of the service will be available at www.goodwinefuneralhomes.com/live-stream/live-stream . Memorial contributions may be made to the "Leukemia & Lymphoma Society", with envelopes available at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Robinson New Cemetery, where military rites will be accorded by the combined units of the U.S. Army, the Robinson V.F.W. Post #4549, the Robinson American Legion Post #69, and the Flat Rock American Legion Post #132.