Gary Lee Lane, 61, of Spaulding, IL passed away at his residence May 6, 2025. He was born June 16, 1963, in Springfield, IL the son of Allen Lane Sr. and Marjorie "Marge" (Bunch) Lane. Gary is survived by ex-wife and mother of his children Brenda (Dalton) Lane of Jacksonville, IL, and daughters Mary Lane of Maryville, TN, and Brittany Lane of Jacksonville, IL. Joy Painter of St. Louis, MO gave him bonus children Katy (Josh) West of Springfield, IL, and Ryan (Heather) Painter of St. Louis, MO. He was affectionately known as Papa G to his bonus grandchildren Carter, Jack, Ben, Maverick, and Magnolia. Gary is also survived by siblings, Allen (AP) Lane Jr. of Blue Springs, MO, Mary Sexton, and Janet Hutchens-Gooden, both of Springfield, IL, and many nieces and nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents and brother U.S. Army PFC Robert (Bob) Lane. Gary graduated from Lanphier High School in 1981. He then followed in his dad and uncle's footsteps as a member of Iron Workers Union Local 46. He was currently Transportation Supervisor for the Riverton Community Unit School District. He was proud to be a Hawk. When Gary was diagnosed with cancer, the school and community rallied around him. He was very humbled by the outpouring of love provided him. Gary enjoyed spending time with his friends and family. He took his children on church mission trips to remind them to stay humble. He also volunteered with the local Habitat for Humanity organization for many years. Gary was always eager to support the community that gave back to him. An avid fan of dirt racers, he was always ready to go to the track with his daughters and friends to cheer his favorite drivers. Services will be at Ellinger-Kunz Funeral Home, 530 N 5th St, Springfield, IL, Sunday May 11, 2025, with visitation 1:30 and service to follow at 3:30. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials to Riverton Community Unit School District, 6425 Old Route 36, PO Box 1010, Riverton, IL 62561