Eloy V. Gehring, 77, of Rochelle passed away peacefully Saturday Sept. 24, 2011 at Manor Care Rehabilitation Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Eloy, son of Emanuel and Elsie (Vetter) Gehring, was born July 1, 1934 in Garrison, ND. He married Cornelia Chandler on June 20, 1958 in Freeport, IL. Eloy played baritone horn in the United States Army Band, based in Trieste, Italy, in 1954-1955. He studied music education at Minot State Teachers College in Minot, ND, and Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL. In 1968, Eloy and Cornelia moved to Rochelle. He was active in the Rochelle Golden K, First Presbyterian Church, and the Tres Dias organization. As a member of the Rotary Club he was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. Eloy influenced countless students through his work as Band Director at the elementary and junior high schools from 1968 to 1977, and then as Assistant Band Director at Rochelle Township High School until his retirement. It always brought a twinkle to his eye when a former student would stop him on the street with a cheerful "Hello, Mr. Gehring!"
Eloy was preceded in death by his brother, Virgil Gehring, and his sister, Darlene Schumacher. Survivors include his wife Cornelia, his son Dr. William Gehring of Ann Arbor, MI, and his son Dr. David Gehring (Susan) and three grandchildrenCalvin (11), Caroline (9) and Evelyn (7) of Toddville, IA. He is also survived by his brother Dr. Delton Gehring of Davenport, IA, his brother Dr. William Gehring (Gloria) of Hazen, ND, his brother Dr. W. Robert Gehring (Carolyn) of Rockwall, TX, and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 5-8 PM Thursday, Sept. 29 at Unger-Horner Funeral Home in Rochelle, IL. Funeral services will be held 10:00 AM Friday Sept. 30 at First Presbyterian Church of Rochelle. Burial will follow at Lawnridge Cemetery. Military rights provided by Rochelle VFW Post 3878. Memorial donations may be made to First Presbyterian Church of Rochelle.