Gary A. Council, 82, of Bettendorf, Iowa passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Throughout his illness, Gary faced each day with strength, determination, and the same quiet resilience that defined his life.

     Graveside services will be held at 11:30 A.M. on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at Glendale Cemetery, where military honors will be provided by Buffalo Bill American Legion Post 347. Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 3:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. on Friday, May 29, 2026, at McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home in Bettendorf. Memorials may be made in Gary’s honor to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation.

     Gary was born in Des Moines on May 21, 1944, to Gayle and Mary (Gibson) Council. In 1962, he proudly enlisted in the United States Marine Corps and served his country honorably until his discharge in 1964.

     On September 5, 1964, Gary married the love of his life, Ellen M. Fullmer, in Bettendorf. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, and lasting memories, sharing more than six decades of marriage.

     Gary dedicated over 40 years to Sivyer Steel Company, where he worked as a pattern shop manager and earned the respect of coworkers and friends alike through his strong work ethic and steady nature. Outside of work, he gave generously of his time as a longtime member of the LeClaire Volunteer Fire Department.

     Gary found joy in life’s simple pleasures — restoring and admiring antique cars and hot rods, searching for hidden treasures at flea markets and swap meets, and spending time with the people he loved most. He will be remembered for his quiet kindness, dependable spirit, and the deep love he had for his family.

     Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Ellen; his daughters, Leslie (Phil) Council and Ronda Council; his son, Darin (Melissa) Council; his grandchildren, Gabrielle (Harman) Bains, Mara (Griffin) McConnell, Zephry McConnell, Benjamin Council, and Anna Sophia Council; his sisters, Doris Krueger and Carol Hodgden; and his brother, Randy (Sue) Dague.

     He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Pat, Johnny, and Rick.

     Condolences may be shared with the family by viewing his obituary at www.McGinnis-Chambers.com.