Gary E. Hei, 81, of rural Kiel died Saturday morning May 30, 2026 at Aurora Hospital, Two Rivers. He was born in Durand, WI son of the late Edward and Charlotte (Smith) Hei. Gary graduated from Durand High School. He furthered his education while attending Tech School.

On April 8, 1972 he was united in marriage to the former Ann Bonde at St. Gregory Catholic Church, St. Nazianz. Gary worked for Tecumseh Products, New Holstein for 42 years until his retirement. Starting at a young age, Gary was a lover of cars and racing. He spent more than 40 years drag racing primarily at Kaukauna Raceway. He was a well known fabricator and car builder. Gary was always willing to give a hand to friends with their car and race projects. When he wasn't racing on Saturday he could be found in his garage working on his cars or bench racing with his friends. After he retired as a racer, he enjoyed working on and driving his show cars. Gary built many lasting friendships in the racing and streetrod community. He was also a past member and president of the snowmobile club.

Survivors include his wife, Ann, brother; Lynn (Kathy) Bignell, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; Gail Schlies, Joan (Daniel) Reseburg, Steven Bonde, Cheryl Bonde along with numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers; Dennis "Dean" and Michael Hei, sister; Mary (Kenneth) Koenig, sister-in-law; Patricia Bignell, brother-in-law; Richard Bonde.

Funeral Services for Gary will be held at11:30am on Thursday June 4, 2026 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, School Hill. A time of visitation will take place at the church on Thursday from 9:00am until 11:15am. Entombment will follow at Knollwood Mausoleum, Manitowoc.

Gary's family would like to thank the Kiel Ambulance Service for all their help. They would also like to thank the staff at Complete Care, Manitowoc and Aurora Hospital in Two Rivers for the care and compassion given to Gary.