Gary L. Panko, 74, of rural Urbana passed away in his home March 13, 2014. Private burial will be held. Renner-Wikoff Chapel, 1900 S. Philo Rd., Urbana is in charge of arrangements.

Mr. Panko was born February 27, 1940 in Herkimer, New York, the son of Russell and Virginia Beer Panko, Sr. He married Sara Elizabeth Stevens on August 12, 1962 in Urbana and she survives. He is also survived by two daughters, Alison T. Scott (David) of Champaign and Kristine E. Toler (Trevor) of Urbana. A brother, Larry Panko (Irene) of Herkimer, NY and two sisters, Virginia Knowles (Donald) of Ilion, NY and Joanne Coones (Todd) of Frankfort, NY and five grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Russell Panko II and David Panko.

Mr. Panko attended grade school and high school in Mohawk, NY. He served in the US Air Force from 1958 through 1962 and later trained as an electrical apprentice and joined the IBEW Local 601 as an Electrician. He was a member of the American Legion Post # 2910 in Bloomington and was a Life member of the NRA. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, the outdoors and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to the Salvation Army or to the American Cancer Society.