Max Lee Gillette

Max Lee Gillette, 93, of Galesburg, passed away at 5:20 p.m. Saturday September 7, 2024 at his home surrounded by his family.

He was born September 26, 1930 in Monmouth, Illinois, the son of Max Elliott and Grace Viola (Bullwinkle) Gillette. Max graduated from Galesburg High School in 1948. He then enlisted and proudly served in the United States Navy in 1949, during the Korean Conflict, and was honorably discharged in 1955. Max took several courses while being stationed, including Aviation Machinists Mate School and Airman School in Tennessee. He also served with the Air Transport Squadron based at the Naval Air Station in California.

Max worked as a stationary engineer at the Galesburg Research Hospital until they closed. He later worked as a supervisor for the carpenter shop at Hill Correctional Center for many years, until he retired in 1995. On the side, he kept himself busy working at a paint shop for a while. Max married the love of his life, Eleanor Gaile Hawkins on August 23, 1958 at Faith United Methodist Church in Galesburg. She preceded him in death on July 23, 2022.

Max is survived by two sons: Rick (Rosie) Snell of Springfield, Illinois, and Dennis (Kim) Gillette of Galesburg; one daughter, Tina (Tim) Guardalabene of Galesburg; eight grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and 3 great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters: Julia Bartlett and Kathryn Hottinger; his daughter, Dorothy (Snell) Clyatt; and his beloved wife of 63 years, Ellie.

Max will be lovingly remembered for always lending a helping hand; he would drop anything he was doing for his family and friends. Max was a very simplistic man. He enjoyed to spend his time outdoors and relax, whether he was fishing or hunting. Max liked to play cards and was an avid collector of coins and stamps. He really enjoyed spending time with his family, especially having family meals together. Max attended from his youth, Faith United Methodist Church (formerly United Brethren) and Four-Square Gospel Church. God, his family, and his church family were of the upmost importance and special to him. He will be deeply missed.

Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be held 2:00 p.m. Thursday, September 26, 2024 at Faith United Methodist Church, Galesburg. Memorial contributions may be made to Faith United Methodist Church or Cat N’ Around.