Gillette, Ivan James, 39, passed away in El Dorado, KS on March 9, 2023. Ivan was born in Independence, KS on March 4th, 1984. He attended Neodesha public schools from kindergarten through high school. He was accepted into the extended learning program in the 2nd grade. He participated in band playing saxophone beginning in 5th grade. During high school he devoted much time to the science and technology program and loved it very much. He graduated in May, 2002. He was a State Regents Scholar, Governor Scholar, and class Valedictorian. He attended Wichita State University studying Aerospace Engineering. He became an avid "gun guy" and did some gun smith work on the side. He was a long time member of the International Defensive Pistol Association and was a 4 time consecutive Regional Expert Stock Service Revolver champion. He spent some time as a Corections Officer at Eldorado Penitentiary and also several years as an over the road truck driver.

He is survived by his mother, Ella Mae Gillette, and daughter, Ember of Augusta, KS. His sister, Debra Danielson and her family of Wichita, KS. His father and step-mother, Cliff and Louise Gillette of Neodesha, KS. His grandparents, Jim and Hazel Gillette, of Paola, KS. He touched many lives along the way and was well liked by all who knew him.

Funeral arrangements are pending at this time.