Gary Smythe

Gary Jay Smythe, 71, passed away Saturday February 10, 2024 among his family. He was born March 14, 1952, in Chicago, IL, the son of the late Bernard and Esther (Mirsky) Smythe. He graduated from Sullivan High School in Chicago in 1969 and earned Bachelor’s Degrees in both English and Psychology from Northern Illinois University in 1973.

A well-known and respected leader in the Credit Card Printing industry, Gary spent the majority of his professional career as an executive with companies including Perfect Plastic Printing, Didier Card Company, CPI, MetalliCard and Catalyst Card Company. He continued to share his depth of knowledge into his retirement as a consultant and mentor.

A generous man, Gary gave freely of both his money and time. He was a dedicated friend, cherished husband and supportive father. Ever ready with a story or word of advice, he provided an ear to listen and sound guidance. Gary loved to laugh and would regularly provide memorable jokes in conversation.

He was tenderhearted with animals and children and found great joy in the simple times spent with them. He pursued and embraced every opportunity for silliness with his granddaughters which will forever be impressed upon their hearts.

His passion for music was evident in his encyclopedic knowledge of artists which he readily shared in engaging discussions. A song was nearly always on his lips. A musician himself, Gary played both the piano and guitar. He was regularly found outdoors, enjoying a round of golf or walking with his dogs. He particularly enjoyed the ten years he spent living in the beauty of Colorado. Gary is survived by his wife of 27 years, Jeanine Smythe of Fort Wayne, IN; children, Cory Smythe (Elizabeth Uzelac-Smythe) of Croton-on-Hudson, NY; Alison Smythe of Brooklyn, NY; granddaughter Zora Uzelac-Smythe; stepchildren Jason (Mary Beth) Koch of Lisle, IL; Stephanie (William) Puralewski of Huntley, IL; Tyler Koch of Hoffman Estates, IL; stepgranddaughters Evelyn Puralewski and Samantha Puralewski; sister, Joady Kaplan of Woodstock, IL.

Along with Gary’s family he is also survived by his dog, Lola, and his parrot, Olivia. He was preceded in death by his four legged companions, Lexi, Bowzer and Picard.

Private service will be held. Memorials may be made to The American Cancer Society. For information and to leave condolences, please contact Shalom Memorial Funeral Home, www.shalommemorial.org or (847) 255-3520.