Gary Graham

Gary grew up in Sylvan Lake in Mundelein where he was loved by everyone. Gary spent many hours walking the lake talking with everyone he encountered. Gary never met a stranger. Gary loved playing in the Sylvan Lake volleyball league with his nasty “whisper serve” and he enjoyed swimming and bike riding. Gary went to Libertyville H.S. where he attended the Sedol program graduating in 1978. Although Gary was born with Williams Syndrome, that didn’t stop Gary from being very active. Gary was a team manager for both the varsity football and basketball teams. After high school, LHS became Gary’s life love. Gary continued to attend just about every football and basketball, both home and away games, riding on the team bus. He became known as “Super Fan.” The LHS class of 1978 was so special to Gary. Many years ago, they developed a scholarship in Gary’s name called the Spirit award which would go to a senior student who exuded the same school spirit that Gary did and he loved presenting it. They also often had a convertible in the home coming parade with Gary proudly waving to all his fans and man did he love that! Sometime after high school, Gary got a job at Plitt Theatre in Vernon Hills as a ticket taker & usher and he was there from the year they opened until they closed. This is where he met and developed relationships with many of the Chicago Bears such as Dan Hampton, Jay Hilgenberg, Mike Hartenstein, and many others. In fact, Jay Hilgenberg visited Gary at Condell Medical Center when Gary was hospitalized in April of 24’. Dan Hampton also called Gary at the hospital to wish him well. After Gary’s mom passed away, he went on to live a Lambs Farm making many friends. He was able to thrive there for 19 years from 2005 to 2024 working at the pet shop. Gary performed in the Special Olympics earning medals in bocce ball, tennis, and track. Gary loved Lambs Farm and his family is extremely grateful for the care and opportunities provided to him.  Gary’s biggest fans were his Mom and Dad. His Mom called him her “Prince” and Dad and Gary were best buddies!  

 

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