Gary Dorn

Gary Dorn, age 70, of St. Charles, and former teacher at Genoa Middle School, passed into eternal Life on Monday, May 18, 2015, surrounded by the prayers of his family at Kindred Hospital, Sycamore, IL. He was born November 26, 1944, in Rockford, IL, the son of Clyde D. and Vivian G. (Morrow) Dorn and brother Brock. Sunday dinners in Belvidere were filled with laughter and memories and a table filled with many cousins. Gary grew up in Belvidere and attended local schools. He graduated from Belvidere High School before attending Northern Illinois University. Before his time there was through, he would obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a Master’s Degree in Counseling. Gary met the woman who would become his best friend and soulmate, Mary Jo Hall, on a blind date set up by Gary’s seven year old cousin, who just happened to be a first student of Mary Jo’s. It was an inauspicious beginning at a family barbecue set up by a cousin of Gary’s. Despite the familiar pressures, a friendship was born that bloomed into love that was consecrated on July 22, 1972. They began their new life as man and wife in an apartment in St. Charles for a time before settling into their present home only a few years later, centered between both their jobs as educators. It didn’t take much time before they filled it not only memories but with a growing family as well. They were blessed with two daughters and several cats that made a home in his heart. Gary was a teacher for over 35 years, but also spent time in the fields as a farmer. He worked alongside his father-in-law, Ray Hall, for many years and eventually took over the care of the 400 acre farm when Ray passed away in 1996. The only tractor allowed was his John Deere. Both the tractor and Gary farmed into his 70th year.Gary was a faithful member of Fox Valley Presbyterian Church for many years where he found fellowship in many places, including the choir and golf club. Gary was a simple man who not only loved people, but loved to care for them as well. Gary often went out of his way to make friends with everyone he met. Those connections, however brief, cemented friendships in every walk of life. Gary had a subtle, yet strong presence that spoke volumes. He always taught his children to do their best, but not to take life too seriously. Chicago sports and golf were passions that would not be denied. He was active in his community, volunteering his time. Many came to know him through his long-time work with the St. Charles High School concession stand. He was a talented musician who taught himself to play guitar. Over the years he would entertain not only his family and friends, but also the pre-school classes of his grandchildren as well. Gary struggled with his health in the last many months, but his spirit stayed true and strong. His legacy will live on in the friendships and stories shared amongst family, friends and students and will never be forgotten. He is survived by his loving wife Mary Jo, Two daughters: Elizabeth Dorn and Jill (Gabor) Zsuppan and their children, Izabel, Alexandra and Laszlo;One brother, Brock (Karin) Dorn;Niece and nephew, Todd (Michelle) Dorn and their family, and Marisa (Lance) Birkenholz and many friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and Vivian Dorn. Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, May 21, 2015, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL. Following a private family committal, Gary’s family invites all those who wish to celebrate his life to attend a memorial service at Fox Valley Presbyterian Church, 227 East Side Drive, Geneva, IL, at 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 22, 2015. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Gary’s name to benefit his favorite charities. Checks may be made to the Gary Dorn Memorial and mailed in care of P.O. Box 66, Elburn, IL 60119. Tributes may also be forwarded to the same address or on www.conleycare.com .

Visitation will be from 4-7 p.m., Thursday, May 21, 2015, at Conley Funeral Home, 116 W. Pierce St., Elburn, IL. Following a private family committal, Gary’s family invites all those who wish to celebrate his life to attend a memorial service at Fox Valley Presbyterian Church, 227 East Side Drive, Geneva, IL, at 1:30 p.m., Friday, May 22, 2015.