It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Wendell Heedum, 77, on March 30, 2025, peacefully, with his loving family by his side. He was born on September 11, 1947 in Omaha, Nebraska to Howard and Elaine (nee Huff) Heedum. Gary is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Linda (nee DeLong) Heedum; his sister, Janis Heedum (Rob Mustard); his daughters, Julie (Peter) Monacella, Dori (Kwame) Mensah, Jill (Charles) Woodworth; and the grandchildren he adored, Avery, Grant, Nyla, Kade, Adrian, Quinn, and Maeve. Gary was preceded in death by his parents Howard and Elaine (nee Huff) Heedum.

Gary graduated from New Berlin High School in Wisconsin, Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and Luther Seminary in St. Paul, Minnesota, marking the beginning of a ministry that spanned five decades.

Gary’s calling to ministry began early in life. Though high school counselors encouraged him to pursue careers in medicine or engineering, Gary knew that his heart was set on becoming a pastor. His journey led him to Luther Seminary, where he gained academic knowledge, but it was the people he served who truly taught him what it meant to be a pastor. His first pastoral role was at Cambridge Lutheran Church, where he laid the foundation of care, wisdom, and connection that would define his ministry for 50 years.

In 1978, Gary felt deeply called to accept the synod position to start All Saints Lutheran Church in Palatine, Illinois. With an unshakeable determination, he knocked on 3,000 doors and wore out three pairs of shoes before holding the first service in a classroom at Fremd High School. Over the next 50 years, Gary served at Gloria Dei Lutheran in Downers Grove, Saint Barnabas Lutheran Church in Cary, Illinois, and many other interim positions. His moving sermons, empathetic pastoral care, and genuine connection with the people he served left an enduring impact on the many lives he touched.

Gary was a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His relationship with Linda was a beautiful testament to his devotion, and their 56 years together were filled with love and affection, often shown through sweet notes left all over the house for her and kind gestures. As a father and grandfather, Gary found joy in creating lasting memories with his family, particularly cherishing moments spent with his grandchildren—whether captaining the boat with them on his lap or teaching them to fish at the cabin. Gary was always there to listen, guide, and support his family through life’s highs and lows.

Outside of his ministry, Gary embraced a rich and fulfilling life. A proud Nebraska Cornhuskers fan, he loved golfing, fishing, snorkeling, spicy food, country music, singing, and traveling the world. He had a special fondness for Kauai, the Boundary Waters, Minnesota and St. Germain, Wisconsin, where he loved spotting loons and listening to their song. He loved a roaring campfire, often started by a single match. Gary’s sense of humor, love of a good party, and ability to create fun-filled memories will be fondly remembered by those who knew him. He brought joy and laughter to all who gathered with him.

Though his passing leaves a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community, Gary’s legacy of love, faith, and service will continue to inspire all who knew him. We take comfort in knowing that through faith, we will one day be reunited with him in heaven.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Gary’s memory to support the following organizations.

Antwi Mensah and Family Foundation
Support Antwi Mensah and Family Foundation Here

Alzheimer’s Association
Support Alzheimer’s Association Here

All are welcome at the memorial services for Gary Heedum
Location: All Saints Lutheran Church, 630 S Quentin Rd, Palatine, IL
Visitation: Monday, April 7th, 4:00pm-7:00pm
Memorial Service: Tuesday, April 8th at 11:00am