Alan "Al" D. Gartin

June 4, 1955 – March 3, 2026

Alan “Al” D. Gartin, 70, of Geneseo, passed away on March 3, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, community service, and a profound love for his family.

Born on June 4, 1955, in Galesburg, IL, to Billy Richard and Mary Viola Gartin, Al was a man who found fulfillment in working with his hands. In his early years, he worked the land with a farmer, but he eventually found his true calling in the body shop. As a talented bodyman and car painter for most of his adult life, Al turned his passion into a career, creating lasting friendships along the way.

Al was also deeply committed to his community, serving for many years as a volunteer firefighter and EMT-B for the Atkinson Fire Protection District. He later joined John Deere Seeding, where he worked until his retirement in 2024.

On September 23, 2002, Al married his soulmate, Ulanda, in Jamaica. While Al had many titles throughout his professional life, he always insisted his most important job was being "Papa" and "Grandpa." He had an immense soft spot for his grandchildren, rarely missing a sporting event and finding his greatest joy in watching them run and play.

Outside of work and family events, Al loved the simple things: camping, boating, cooking, and enjoying a cold Busch Light with friends. He held a special place in his heart for Tennessee, a destination he visited often and hoped to one day call home.

Al is survived by his wife, Ulanda, and his step-children, whom he loved and raised as his own:

• Riley (Randi) Reeves and their children, Camden and Parker (Colona, IL).

• Taylan (Justin) Blaser and their children, Bentley, Woodsyn, and "Baby Blaser" on the way (Colona, IL).

He is also survived by:

• Brother: Gary Swank; Nephew: Matthew Swank.

• In-laws: Bob (Ellen) Nelson and Lisa (Mitch) Gentry.

• Nieces and Nephews: Krista (Joel) Neave (Cora, Ember, Mila); Katie (Nick) Shreffler (Madison, T.J.); Logan (Kaleena) Gentry (Myers, Sloane); and Shawn Hall (Gentry).

Al was reunited in peace with his parents; his grandparents, Arby and Mary Woods and Dwight and Beatrice Garrett; his niece, Lauren A. Hall; his brother, Richard Gartin; his mother-in-law, Eyvonne Nelson; and many close friends.

In lieu of flowers and memorial trees, memorial donations may be made to The Al Gartin Memorial at Bank Orion for the future education expenses of his five grandchildren.

 A celebration of life will be held at a later date to honor Al's life.