Gary Joseph Rubsam (71) of Buffalo, MO, formerly of Newton

Gary Joseph Rubsam, age 71, of Buffalo, Missouri, and formerly of Newton, Illinois passed away on Sunday, January 29, 2023, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri.

Private family services honoring Gary’s life will be held with burial in Vanderhoof Cemetery south of Newton, Illinois. A celebration of life will be held at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Newton from 1:30 - 4:00 PM Saturday, February 11, 2022. All those who knew Gary are welcome to attend the celebration of life. Arrangements are under the care of the Meyer Funeral Home in Newton, Illinois. The obituary can be viewed, and condolences left by clicking here. 

Gary was born on August 10, 1951, in Olney, Illinois, the first child of Oscar and Dorothy (Kuenstler) Rubsam. He married Janet (Keller) Rubsam on July 7, 1973, and to this union three children were born, Lori, Kelly, and Luke. He attended St. Thomas School, graduated from Newton Community High School, and received an associate degree from Peoria College. Gary was a member of St the Apostle Thomas Church, Knights of Columbus, Moose Lodge, and Eagles Club. Gary worked at Newton IGA as a produce manager for many years. Later he worked in the trucking industry for Schneider National and Prime Trucking. Gary enjoyed spending time with his children and grandchildren. Watching granddaughter Emily direct the Newton Marching Eagles as a drum major, play cello at church and in the Eastern Symphony Orchestra, was his favorite things to do with her. Grandson, Mitchell Joseph, formed an incredible bond with grandpa while fishing at the pond, at East Fork Lake and the Newton Lake. Mitch referred to grandpa as his best friend. Grandson Carter enjoyed playing board games with grandpa, especially Pick-Up Sticks, when grandpa spent the night when he was in town. Opie was Gary's faithful canine companion.

Gary is survived by his loving family: Children - Lori Rubsam, Kelly (Jerry) Ross and Luke Rubsam all of Newton, Illinois. The mother of his children, Janet Rubsam Schafer, of Newton, Illinois. Grandchildren - Emily Ross of Charleston, Illinois; Mitchell Ross and Carter Ross of Newton, Illinois. Significant Other, Cindy Schafer of Buffalo, Missouri. Siblings - Steve (Earlene) Rubsam and Greg (Carol) Rubsam all of Newton, Illinois; and Cheryl (Christopher) Roth of Florida.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents and his youngest brother, Brian Rubsam.

Gary loved people and never knew a stranger. His work took him all over the country, and he made many lasting friendships. He often gave to those in need and had true compassion and empathy for anyone struggling in this world. He will be missed by many.