GENE EAST

Gene East, 83, of Quincy, Ill., died May 4, 2024 at Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy, Ill.

Born on April 17, 1941, in LaGrange, Mo., Gene was the son of Bill and Wilma (Tuttle) East. His life was a testament to his strong work ethic, his unwavering faith, and his deep love for his family and country. He married Norma (Couch) East on March 18, 2006,

Surviving are his children: Eric East (Dayna) of Greenwood, AR, Darin East of Quincy, Ill., Joshua East (Marcia) of Kansas City, Mo., and Emily East of Pekin, Ill. Six grandchildren, Aaron, Jacob, McKenna, Hunter, Jemma Gepford, and Noella Gepford, Gene is also survived by his brothers, Floyd East and Steven East; sister, Nancy Richards; and a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his parents; two sons, Erin East and Derek East; and four sisters, Janie Job, Sandy Simmons, Judy East, and Georgette VanTress.

Gene proudly served his country as a Shipfitter in the United States Navy. His civilian career began as a welder and machinist at Quincy Welding and worked in safety management where he worked for BFI, Laidlaw, Waste Management and Gully Transportation. He later was a bus driver for Quincy Public Schools.

He was a dedicated member of Bethel Assembly of God. He competed in boat racing on the National level, winning multiple championships as part of the Legendary Quincy Welding and Machine team. Gene was a proud member of the American Power Boat Association.

A Memorial Service was held May 11, 2024, at the Bethel Assembly of God in Quincy. Pastor Todd Hastings officiated. Burial was at Quincy Memorial Park in Quincy, IL with full Military Honors.

Memorial contributions: Shriners Children’s Research Hospital.

Arrangements: O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, Ill.