Eugene “Gene” Edward Egbers — O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home

Eugene “Gene” Edward Egbers, 88, of Quincy, passed away at 7:12 pm Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Gene was born August 7, 1936, in Quincy, IL to John and Mary (Mahoney) Egbers. On May 1, 1965, Gene married the love of his life, Sharon Kay Davis, at Central Baptist Church in Quincy. She survives.

Other survivors include his children, David Eugene Egbers (Sonna) and Kathy Hawk (Greg Miller), both of Quincy; four grandchildren, Forrest Hawk (Breally Bunch) of Hollywood, CA, Kaitlyn Hawk (Tyler Barnard) of Liberty, IL, Garin Egbers of Quincy, and Myla Egbers of Quincy; two great-grandchildren, Easton and Everleigh Barnard, of Liberty, IL; two brothers, Carl Egbers (Terry) of Byron, MN, and Eddie Egbers (Joyce) of Des Moines, IA; one sister, Mary Kay McCarthy (Bob) of Des Moines, IA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; one brother and sister in-law, John and Margaret Egbers; and one sister, Barbara Ann Egbers.

Gene attended Quincy High School and went on to serve his country with honor in the United States Navy from 1956 to 1962. His professional life was characterized by his role as a machinist and trainer, where he dedicated over 50 years to his craft at Gardner Denver, sharing his knowledge and expertise with countless individuals. Even after his long career, Gene continued to work at Coulter Asphalt until the age of 81, demonstrating his tireless work ethic and love for staying active. He was also a member of Rocky Point Club.

Gene’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. An avid outdoorsman, he relished the times spent hunting for duck, deer, squirrel, and rabbit. Fishing was another of his joys, with Turtle Lake, the bay, and the river being his favorite spots to cast a line. His commitment to youth and community was evident in his role as a Boy Scouts master, shaping the lives of young scouts with his wisdom and patience.

Gene also enjoyed the camaraderie and competition found in bowling, frequenting Harrison Lanes and Park Bowl. His adventurous spirit shone through in his love for motorcycle riding, and he was often found with a newspaper in hand or engrossed in an old western. Travel was another of Gene’s pleasures, with Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Branson being among his favorite destinations. One of his most cherished memories was taking the extended family on a memorable trip to Disney.

Above all, Gene’s heart belonged to his family. He was a constant presence in the lives of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, cherishing every moment spent with them. Gene often expressed that marrying Sharon was “the best thing that ever happened to me,” a sentiment he shared with anyone who would listen. Gene’s life was one of unwavering commitment to the things he held dear. His kindness, generosity, and infectious smile will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Friends and Family are invited to Gene’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Tuesday, March 18, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy, IL.

A Funeral Ceremony will be at 10:00 am Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at the O’Donnell-Cookson Life Celebration Home in Quincy. Pastor Brett Gosteli will officiate. Burial will follow at Sunset Cemetery in Quincy, IL with full military honors provided by the United States Navy Funeral Honors Detail and the American Legion Post #37.

Memorial contributions may be made to Rocky Point and/or to the great-grandchildren’s educational fund.

Online condolences may be shared and video tribute may be viewed at www.ODonnellCookson.com.