Garth Pearson

Garth Frank Pearson, 88, of Yates City, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at home surrounded by his family and beloved dog, Millie.

He was bo

rn on March 18, 1938, to Benjamin Franklin and Dixie Ollie (Billingsley) Pearson. They preceded him in death, along with his brother Fletch (Jeanne) Pearson and sister Dana (George) Depew.

Garth is survived by his wife of 61 years, Paula Kaye (Nott) Pearson, whom he married on December 5, 1964.

He is also survived by his five children: Audra (Joseph) Marino, Ann (Pearson) Nolan, Frank (Melissa) Pearson, Amber (Steven) Williams, and Amanda Pearson; eight grandchildren: Zachary Nolan, Jared Marino, Alena (Kyle) Killion, Kelsey Pearson, Kaitlyn Gray, William (Anna) Pearson, Marisa Marino, and Charlotte Pearson; and five great-grandchildren: Aliyah Killion, Kody Killion, Adilyn Killion, Kooper Killion, and Ezra Pearson.

Garth graduated from Spoon River Valley High School in 1956, then attended Western Illinois University and later Bradley University.

In 1957, he began an apprenticeship as a machinist with Caterpillar Tractor Company, which he completed in 1966 after pausing to enlist in the United States Army in 1961 for Machine Design.

Upon his discharge in 1963, Garth had obtained the rank of E-5 Specialist Combat Engineer in the 4th Infantry Division of the Engineer Corps and was awarded Expert Marksman status.

Following his military service, Garth returned to Caterpillar, where he had a fulfilling 42-year career as a machinist and engineer, often traveling to Europe. He retired in 1999.

Garth was a longtime member of the Freemasonry Lodge of A.F. & A.M. of Illinois, Temple Lodge No. 46, serving as a Master Mason for 65 years. He was also recognized by the Scottish Rite Freemasonry of the Valley of Peoria as a 32nd Degree Master Mason for 60 years.

He enjoyed farming, music—especially John Denver’s Today—watching Homestead Rescue, and spending time with his wife, family, and friends. He often shared words of wisdom, his favorite saying being, “It’s a great life if you don’t weaken.”

A private service will be held for family per his request.

Burial will be at the White Chapel Memory Gardens in Canton.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Beacon of Hope Hospice of Galesburg.

To leave online condolences please visit oakshinesfuneralhome.com