Gary F. Pumala, age 68, of Twin Lakes, WI, and formerly of northeastern IL, passed away on Tuesday, March 12, 2024, following an arduous battle with lung cancer, which he faced bravely. Son of the late Raymond Pumala and Greta Clegg, Gary was born on December 27, 1955, in Waukegan, IL. He lived in multiple cities throughout northeastern Illinois throughout his life, even having hitchhiked back up north after living in Texas as a teenager. He was united in marriage to the love of his life, Ramona Iles, who preceded him in death in 1995, when his sons were children. Many family members offered to assist in raising his boys, but he was committed to doing everything he could for them on his own. He was a loving, family-oriented man with a generous heart. On the flipside, Gary also had a strong personality with a wild sense of humor, a bit of an ornery streak, and was known for always speaking his mind. He was a hard worker in several jobs throughout his life, but the most important work he did was caring for his wife and children. In his free time, Gary enjoyed listening to loud music from a variety of genres, fishing, boating with his kids, and being a grandfather meant the world to him.
Gary is survived by his sons, Sean and Josh Pumala; beloved grandson, Billy Pumala; siblings, Gene, Keith, Joyce, Raymond, Roy and Carolyn; and lifelong best friend and chosen brother, Steve Jensen.
Gary was preceded in death by many friends and family members he loved including his parents; wife; daughter, Danielle, who died at birth; and his beloved canine companion, Beckham the American Bulldog.
In keeping with Gary’s wishes, no funeral service will be held, though a celebration of life party will be planned for the future. Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Home and Crematory of Twin Lakes is honored to serve the Pumala family.
