RACINE - Gilbert "Gilly" L. Paar, 73, the proud “Irish Catholic Democrat”, passed away on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at his residence. He was a lifelong resident of Racine, born on March 16, 1942, the son of Louis and Jane (nee: Cullen) Paar. Gilly received his Associate Degree from Gateway Technical College. He proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1962 until his honorable discharge as Airman Second Class in 1966. Gilly was united in marriage to Patricia Verhaeghe on September 2, 1967. He owned and operated the Sand Bar, Gilly’s on the Square and Gilly's on Main serving spirits to thousands of Racine patrons. But what kept them coming back was his bigger than life personality and hilarious wit and charm. His stories (mostly true!) captivated his audience and left them coming back for more. Gilly was an avid golfer, and found great pride as an instructor and coach for St. Catherine's High School golf team. He was a proud lifelong member of Lakeview Hawks. Gilly enjoyed breakfast at Roosters, kibitzing with the wait staff. He also looked forward to his Tuesday card games at Scores and First Fridays with his many great friends. Surviving his wife of 48 years, Pat; children, Tony (Audrey) Paar of Saudi Arabia and Kendra (Kurt) Korth of Racine; very special granddaughters Kate and Lauren; brothers, Donald (Marcia) Paar of Racine, Thomas (Sharon) Paar of MN and Michael (Donna) Paar of Racine. He is further survived by his father-in-law, Robert Verhaeghe, nieces, nephews, other relatives and many dear friends. Gilly was preceded in death by his parents, one brother, Sammy Paar and mother-in-law, Jeanette Verhaeghe. Gilly often said that his children were his heroes, but the reality is you are our hero Dad! God Bless Ya! Memorial services will be held at Sturino Funeral Home on Sunday February 21, 2016 at 2 pm. Visitation will be held from 12 noon until service time. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to remember Gilly in a special way may direct memorials to Clement J. Zablocki VA Medical Center, 5000 W. National Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53295 Online condolences may be expressed at sturinofuneralhome.com Sturino Funeral Home 3014 Northwestern Ave. Racine, WI 53404 262-632-4479