Gary “Butch,” “Putter” Dean Schilling

Gary “Butch,” “Putter” Dean Schilling, age 77, of Dyer, Arkansas, officially joined the eternal Harley Davidson Sturgis rally in the sky on July 12, 2025. Gary was born on September 3, 1947, in Jefferson, Iowa, to Betty Jane Stoll Schilling and Alvin “Short” Lyle Schilling.

Gary graduated from Glidden-Ralston High School in 1965, then joined the U.S. Navy for four years where he served on the USS Enterprise during the Vietnam War as an Aviation Electrician. Before mustering out in 1971 he achieved the rank of Petty Officer 3rd Class. His father, “Short” served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was a recognized prisoner of war. Gary’s mother, Betty, also served in the U.S. Army during the same war as a nurse at the Schick Army Hospital in Clinton, Iowa.

Gary’s adult life was characterized by wanderlust. Born as a rural farm boy, he became a Sailor, a carnie, a biker, and an 18-wheel trucker. He was known for his independent spirit, generosity towards others, contagious work ethic, and commitment to having a good time. As a teenager, he saved every penny he earned from countless hours of labor to buy a Pontiac GTO, and 3 weeks later wrecked it while having way too much fun. As a father, Gary worked endless hours as a long-haul truck driver to care for, guide, and inspire his four children. He taught them to be fierce, loving, kind, and fun-loving.

Gary is survived by his 30-year partner in life, Marjorie Ann Fondren. They enjoyed countless adventures in their Iowa, Florida and Arkansas homes. He is also survived by his sister, Connie Schilling Bock, children, Lyna Matesi, Roth Schilling, Nichole Crites, Joe Schilling and their mother Carol Woodford Schilling, as well as 15 grandchildren, and 5 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his mother, father, sister Sandra Ver Helst, and great granddaughter Violet Kate Crites.

There are no events scheduled. You can still show your support by sending flowers directly to the family, or planting a memorial tree in memory of Gary Dean Schilling.