Gary Ernest Lange

Gary Ernest Lange, 86, of Rock Island, passed away on June 28, 2026, at Allure of the Quad Cities in Moline.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday July 3, 2026, at Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., Moline. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Burial will be at Rock Island Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family, or a charity of your choice.

Gary was born on August 19, 1939, in La Crosse, Wisconsin, the son of Elmer and Marie (Null) Lange. He was a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville receiving his Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.

He married the love of his life, Glenda Harlow on February 3, 1962, in Moline. Their 64-year marriage was an example of true love to all who knew them.

Gary had been employed as the engineer for over three decades for Rock Island County, retiring in April of 2005 at the age of 65. He worked for 35 years for the Rock Island County Highway Department and retired as the county engineer.

He was a deeply devoted husband and father whose world revolved around family. He found true joy in the simple things of life, working around the house, and being with his family. All who knew him would agree Gary was a kind, honest, fair, hardworking man and a success in life on every level. However, his success as a husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather was on a level that many men never reach.

Gary was an avid follower of Christ. Reading his Bible cover to cover yearly. He served for many years as a treasurer and other offices at Faith Bible Church, where he was a member. If church doors were open, Glenda and Gary were there worshipping, working, and helping in any capacity they were needed.

Gary loved cars; he loved looking at them, driving them, and talking about them. He and Glenda enjoyed many vacations, going on road trips. It was on these trips he enjoyed two of his favorite things: spending time with Glenda and driving his Lincoln.

Survivors include his loving wife of 64 years, Glenda; children, Margaret Lange, Gary Lange, Karen (Andy) Neal; grandchildren, Megan (Rich) Williams, Max Reeh, Jacob Lange, Nicholas Lange, Abigail Neal, Madeleine Neal, Carson Neal; 4 great grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, sister, Barbara Abbey, grandson, Eric Lange, and great grandson, Richie.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Allure of the Quad Cities in Moline for the excellent care they took of Gary. A special thank you to all the residents there who became friends and checked in on Gary daily.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.