Obituary of Gatha G. Estes

Gatha G. Estes, 84, of Beach Park Illinois, passed away July 22, 2023. 

Gatha was born January 12, 1939 in Iuka, Mississippi.  He married Carole DeMarr in 1960 in Zion, Illinois. Gatha worked at John’s Manville, then at Goodyear for 20 years, Pay Hauler and retired from Ft. Sheridan.  His hobby was small engine repair and he spent his spare time fixing engines in his home business. Gatha was a United States Army Veteran and a member The Moose Lodge and was a Shrine Mason.

Gatha is survived by his wife, Carole; children, Paul Estes, and Jerry Estes; grandchildren, Chaurette Wimberley, Nicholas Wimberley, Adam Estes, Hannah Estes, Austin Estes, Sara Estes, Paige Estes, and Chad Estes; great-grandchildren, Gavin Estes and Brinley Estes; and son-in-law, Kerry Gilmore.

Gatha was preceded in death by his daughter, Cynthia Gilmore; parents, George and Alice Estes, and 9 siblings.

A memorial service will take place on Thursday, July 27, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at the Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Road, Zion, IL.  Visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.