Gunnard Allen “Gunny” Wells, 71, of Galesburg, died at 12:58 a.m. Monday, February 3, 2020.
Gunny was born January 29, 1949 in Galesburg, the son of Glen Allen and Ethel Marie (Griggs) Wells. Gunny married his high school sweetheart, Cynthia Ann Davis on November 9, 1968. Gunny and Cindy enjoyed motorcycle riding, scuba diving, vacationing in the Gulf of Mexico, visiting Las Vegas, and socializing with friends and family. Gunny was co-owner of Benny’s Tap and Main Street Pub, popular restaurants and bars in Galesburg.
Gunny is survived by one daughter, Kimberly (Richard) Espe of Henderson, NV and his two grandchildren, Connor and Cadie Espe. Along with his parents, Gunny was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Cindy on March 27, 2019; one granddaughter, Casey Espe, a half-brother, Gerald Dion; and a half-sister, Doris Kilpatrick.
“I met Gunny when he moved next door when I was 7 years old. Although I moved from the neighborhood we became lifelong friends. Growing up Gunny’s house was always the place his friends hung out playing cards at the kitchen table and doing what kids do. His parents were always kind to us and it was the place you could stop by and always be welcome. Not long after school Gunny and Cindy got married and had their daughter Kim. Gunny started work at the animal shelter and later decided to become a tavern owner. Gunny found his element in the tavern business. He had an amazing memory and could remember in detail people’s names, what happened and when. I often told him I didn’t know how he could remember things that occurred so many years ago. Gunny was like the town crier. He relished in the gossip he heard at the bar. He couldn’t wait to call and tell someone what he heard. Gunny was also very opinionated and had a habit of getting involved in things that he should have stayed out of. I often told him to stay out of it to no avail. He always said I can’t shut up. Gunny had many friends and he seemed to know about everyone in town. Gunny and Cindy were made for each other. Throughout the years they were always enjoying life to the fullest. They were free spirits, uninhibited and the life of the party. The motorcycle trips, parties, class reunions and Friday night were something they loved to do. They will be missed but the memories will last forever.” ~ Brad Zeigler.
Cremation will be accorded and no services are planned. Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
