Gilbert W. Coon, 68, of Knoxville, IL, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, October 10, 2025.

Per Gil's wishes, cremation rites have been accorded and no formal services are to be held. A celebration of life will be held on October 26, 2025 from 1pm until 6pm at the Knoxville American Legion, 1381 Henderson Road, Knoxville IL. Our friends at Lieber Boxcar Express will cater the food. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Milan, is assisting the family.

Gil was born on July 28, 1957 in Canton, IL, a son of Dale and Majorie Coon. He married Pam Houston on March 20, 1982 and they enjoyed over 43 years of marriage together. Gil retired from Pomp's Tires formally known as Firestone and Tire-Marketing of Galesburg, IL. After retirement, Gil found great joy in staying busy. He enjoyed mowing lawns, loved being in a tractor and farming, and took much pride in his part-time job at the Knoxville American Legion.

Gil found the most joy in life spending time with his children and grandson. In his younger years, Gil, also known as "Dawg" to some, played slow pitch softball, was an avid bowler and enjoyed boating with his friends and family on the Mississippi River. Later in his life he enjoyed hunting with his son, fishing, side by side trips with his friends and family and his Keystone Lights. Gil was a devoted St. Louis Cardinal fan; however, his love for the Cardinal's never compared to his love for his family, friends, and community. Gil never met a stranger; his genuine smile and easy conversation made everyone feel like he was an old friend. He touched countless lives with his warmth, his humor, and his unwavering kindness. Gil left a huge mark here on earth and will be missed by so many.

Those left to cherish Gil's memory include his wife, Pamela J Coon; children, Samantha Coon-Jackson and Russell Coon; grandson, Houston Jackson; siblings, Daniel (Vickie) Coon and Pamela K Coon; and several nieces and nephews.

Gil was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Debra Wilson.

Online condolences may be left for the family on Gil's tribute wall.