REAR ADMIRAL (RET.) MACK CHARLES GASTON – Age 78, of Chicago Illinois peacefully passed away Sunday, December 2, 2018 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born July 17, 1940 to John Gaston and Felicia Gilliard Gaston and was preceded in death by his brother, Frederick Gaston.

He was a graduate of Tuskegee University, received an MBA from Marymount University and received a commission as an Ensign in the U.S Navy in December 1965. Admiral Gaston had an impressive naval career spanning 31 years, including command of two destroyers and cruiser USS Josephus Daniels, and ashore as Commander Field Command, Defense Nuclear Agency and the first black Commander of Naval Training Center Great Lakes. He retired in 1995. Following retirement from the U.S. Navy, Mack pursued a successful corporate career at Waste Management, Inc. and Electronic Data Systems in senior executive positions.

His infectious smile, unbridled enthusiasm, boundless energy and firm, some would say “bone crushing” handshake were hallmarks of a man who throughout his life was focused on people, human rights, personal dignity, increased opportunity for all including women serving their country with honor. He served as a mentor, role model and positively influenced the lives and careers of countless individuals.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy (Lindblad) Gaston, his daughter, Sonja (Larry) Henderson, his brother, Henry (Connie) Gaston, step-son, Jeff (Karen) Williamson, step-son, Craig (Tara) Williamson, and nine grandchildren, Lawrence, Nicole, Jon, Shane, Aidan, Nate, Luke, Emma and Tyler, and one great-grandchild, Lily.

Funeral Service will be held Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at 2:00 P.M. / CT. at the Village Church of Gurnee, 1319 N. Hunt Club Rd., Gurnee, Illinois 60031. The family will receive friends Friday evening from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at Willis Funeral Home, 2011 Martin L. King, Jr. Blvd., Dalton. Private Interment. Arrangements are by Willis Funeral Home, Inc., Dalton, Georgia 30721 Tel: (706) 278-3808.