Gary Driller

In life, there are moments that alter the course of history; moments that shape who we are, who we become, and how we touch the world around us. On October 14, 1934, in St. Charles, Missouri, Melvin and Marcella “Sally” Driller welcomed their only child, Gary Driller. Their world overflowed with joy, unaware that the baby in their arms would one day leave a legacy of happiness, love, and humor that would ripple far beyond their own lives.

From the start, Gary carried himself with a quiet yet strong confidence. Soft spoken and observant, he had a wit that struck faster than his fastball and landed with the same surprise as his curveball. At St. Charles High School, where he pitched for the baseball team, the local newspaper dubbed him “Killer Driller,” while friends affectionately called him “Stick” for his tall, lean frame.

Driven by a desire to see the world, Gary enlisted in the U.S. Army after graduating high school in 1952 and attending Central Missouri for a year. From January 1957 to December 1958, he served his country, stationed at Camp Desert Rock in Nevada, where his clearance allowed him to witness the testing of dozens of atomic detonations, an experience few could fathom.

When his service ended, Gary returned home to St. Charles, where his life changed forever the day he met Carol at the local Dairy Queen in 1959. It was love at first sight; undeniable, immediate, and lasting. After a short courtship, they married and began building the family that would become the center of Gary’s world, the source of his greatest pride, and the carriers of his legacy.

Together, Gary and Carol raised four children: Petreat (Kevin) Easton, Perry Driller (Kelly Bronson), Penn (Amy) (Linda~deceased) Driller, and Phil (Carleen~deceased) Driller. As a devoted husband and father, Gary delighted in spoiling his only daughter and spent countless hours playing catch with his sons (even into his 80’s), shaping their lives with unwavering love.

His joy only deepened as he became “Grandpa,” “Papa” and “Great Grandpa” to Michael Easton; Taylor (Melody), Xavier, and Sullivan Driller; Erica (DJ), Davina, and Brooks Conwell; Claudia (Vera and Cash Woomer) Driller; and Kendra (Kolby) Sonday; Jack Boyce; and KeyEra Crawford. Each new addition to the family expanded his heart and strengthened the legacy he leaves behind.

For Gary, family was everything and being present in their lives for Saturday evening dinners, Sunday morning breakfasts were non-negotiable. He showed his love simply by showing up, intentionally remembering the little moments that felt like big milestones, and bringing his precise humor that ignited laughter to fill a room.

Throughout his life, Gary held many roles, including co-owner of Merry Go Round Stained Glass in Columbia, Missouri alongside Carol, and later retiring from TWA. But retirement never truly suited him. While others slowed down, Gary chose to keep giving. He joined the St. Charles Parks Department, serving his community with pride and purpose until the age of 89.

Faith was a cornerstone of Gary’s life. A dedicated member of St. Cletus Catholic Church, he attended Saturday services without fail, always bringing canned goods for donation, and remaining steadfast in his commitment to give up sweets every lent. His faith extended far beyond his daily life, allowing Gary to broaden his impact in the world through multiple mission trips to El Salvador, where he served alongside his wife Carol, son Penn, and grandchildren, Taylor and Claudia.

He was also an active member of the Knights of Columbus, where he cherished evenings spent sharing meals, laughter, and friendship. His steady presence, kindness, and humility made him a source of comfort to all who knew him.

Gary stayed active throughout his life, regularly visiting the Main Street Gym, where he was once featured as “Mr. November,” and golfing in impeccably coordinated outfits that became part of his charm. He even celebrated the rare thrill of a hole in one, a moment he carried with well-earned pride.

Gary’s life was defined by service. To his country, his community, his parish, and above all, his family. In countless ways, he unknowingly created the very moments that shape who we are, who we become, and how we now see the world around us. His stories, humor, work ethic, and unwavering love formed the threads that will continue to bind his family and all who knew him. Gary’s presence will be deeply missed, but the impact of his life, those quiet, powerful ripples he’s set into motion will carry forward for generations.

Memorials may be made in Gary’s honor to St. Cletus Peace and Justice for the El Salvador Mission Trips.

A celebration of life will immediately follow the graveside service at Knights of Columbus Hall in St. Charles.