Gary L. Horton

Gary Horton, 76, of Freeport, died Monday

December 11, 2023 at Pearl Pavilion if Freeport, IL

He was born October 17, 1947 in Buffalo Township in Ogle County, IL, the son of James and Bessie (Morden) Horton. Gary was a farmer in the Winslow and Apple River area. He owned and operated Friendly Lakeside Critters Petting Zoo in Apple Canyon He was a member of the Jo Daviess Mounted Patrol. He had a love for animals and westerns.

Gary is survived by two sons, Matthew (Stacy) Horton and John (Heather) Horton; four daughters, Tonya (Dominique) Blumingburg, Renee Horton, Rachel Horton, and Meghan Vincent; brother Harlem "Harly Horton of Polo, IL; two sisters,

Connie Bland of Freeport, IL and Lois K. Del LaCruz of Weltern Ohio; grandchildren, Blaise, Gabrielle, Rebeca, Luke, and Briella Horton, Zachary and Andre Fransen, and Marquez, Marjaya, Maryah, and Alexis Horton; great-grandchildren, Andre Jr. and Tinsley; and close family friend, Lori Stietz.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; brothers James Horton and Lynn Horton, and sister, Joyce Horton-Bryson.

Per Gary's request there will be not be a visitation or memorial service.