Barry Gauen
Pontoon Beach | Save
Barry Gauen, 78, of Pontoon Beach, Illinois passed away at 9:28 a.m. on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Meridian Village in Glen Carbon. Barry was born July 9, 1947, in Denver, Colorado to Kenneth and Cleo (Martin) Gauen. He graduated from Granite City High School in 1966 and married the love of his life, Kathleen (Sanders Krepel), on March 19 of that same year. Together they built a beautiful life filled with family, laughter, and countless memories.
Barry began his career as an electrician in 1970 when he joined IBEW Local 309. Over the years he became a Master Journeyman Electrician, serving on multiple committees, teaching as an Apprentice Instructor, and lending his expertise to the Granite City Electrical Board. He also proudly served for many years as an Occupancy Inspector for the Village of Pontoon Beach.
While electrical work was his profession, Barry was a craftsman at heart. He was a master woodworker who could fix or build just about anything, from home additions and decks to furniture and cabinetry. He loved spending time in his garage surrounded by his tools, projects, and hobby cars. He also enjoyed photography, making stained glass, camping, boating, and shooting a game of pool. He and Kathy shared adventures traveling near and far with family and friends.
Barry was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Richard Gauen, of East New Market, Maryland. He is survived by his wife, Kathy, and their children: Richard (Amy) Gauen of Worden, IL; Mark Gauen of Pontoon Beach, IL; Shannon Heisler (Eric Tinsley) of Springfield, IL; and Vikki (Lee) Whitefoot of Maryville, IL.
The jewels of his life were his grandchildren, Kenneth Gauen, Meghan Heisler, Jordan Bates (Laura), Nicholas Heisler, Matthew Gauen, and Cloe Gauen. Their sports and hobbies became his. He spent countless hours as team “Grandpa” at softball and hockey games; sat as close as possible at band concerts and school musicals; and prided himself on finding them that “perfect” holiday gift where he lit up when he hit his mark. They will all forever carry memories of his love, laughter, and that unmistakable twinkle in his smile.
A visitation with family and Celebration of Life will be held from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, October 11, 2025, at the IBEW 309 Union Hall at 2000 Mall Rd. in Collinsville, Il.
Memorials may be made to the IBEW 309 Disabled Members Fund.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.irwinchapel.com.
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home
