Richard “Dick” Gengenbacher

Richard “Dick” Gengenbacher, 80, of Quincy, passed away at 12:26 pm Friday, February 23, 2024, at Blessing Hospital in Quincy, IL.

Friends and family are invited to Dick’s Life Celebration at a visitation that will be Thursday, February 29, 2024, 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 Friday, March 1, 2024, at St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church in Quincy. Fr. Steven Arisman and Deacon Dennis Holbrook will officiate. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Quincy, IL.

Dick was born October 20, 1943, in Quincy, IL to Edward C. and Vera E. (Peters) Gengenbacher. On June 20, 1964, Dick married the love of his life, Mary Lou, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Quincy, IL. Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and the joy of raising a family. Mary Lou survives him, as do their seven children: Rick Gengenbacher (Becky) of Quincy, Russ Gengenbacher (Lori) of Quincy, Janet Smith (Scott) of Liberty, IL, Randy Gengenbacher (Michelle) of Quincy, Ron Gengenbacher of Quincy, Joy Requet (Adam) of Olathe, KS, and Rob Gengenbacher (Liz) of Quincy.

Dick was the proud grandfather of nineteen grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren, who brought him immeasurable happiness and pride. His legacy continues through Karlee Bruenger (Regan), Kassidy Metcalfe (Connor), Kristen Mahoney (K.J.), Kendra Ramsey (Matthew), Gabby Dreyer (Nathan), Bella Gengenbacher, Walker Smith (Aly), Amelia Smith, Wyatt Smith, Bailey, Aryiel Gengenbacher, Sailor Gengenbacher, Aspen Gengenbacher, Henry Gengenbacher, Ava Requet, Max Requet, Brynn Requet, Thea Gengenbacher, and Alex Gengenbacher, as well as his great-grandchildren Blaize, Nolan, Archie, Sandon, Steel, Scottie, Willow, Atticus, and Brayleigh. Other survivors include his two brothers, Jerry Gengenbacher (Evelyn) of Quincy, IL and Bob Gengenbacher (Donna) of Fort Madison, IA; and one sister in-law, Linda Gengenbacher of Bozeman, Montana.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Lorene Sims, Kenneth Gengenbacher, Shirley Dingerson; one great granddaughter, Kinsley Rae; his mother and father-in-law, Mary and Harry Amburn; and one sister in-law, Margaret Egbers.

A man of great skill and dedication, Dick spent 50 years and four days as a machine repairman at Gardner Denver, always emphasizing the additional four days beyond the half-century mark. His talents extended beyond his primary career, as he was known for his skill in fixing anything and everything, painting houses, and his seasonal role as Santa’s beloved helper. In 2001, he embarked on an entrepreneurial venture with his son, founding Gengenbacher’s Shaved Ice Shack, which became a Quincy staple during the summer with both a stationary location and two mobile units that were present at many summer festivals.

Dick’s passions were as diverse as his skills. A fervent supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals, he also found solace in the tranquility of gardening, the patience of fishing, and the joy of cooking. His famous chili recipe not only won a cookoff but also had the honor of being served to Newt Gingrich. His culinary adventures were often sweetened by his love for desserts, balanced by an unexpected affinity for onions, which he humorously smuggled into restaurants to enhance his meals. Dick looked forward to his Wednesday morning breakfasts with the Gardner Denver retirees.

Dick’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, as evidenced by his active membership at St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church. He was a familiar face at Catholic pancake and sausage breakfasts, and he never passed up a chance to enjoy fried chicken at the KC. Above all, Dick was a family man, with a heart that believed home was wherever his family gathered. His travels to Jamaica, Hawaii, and Mexico were not for the destinations themselves but for the cherished company of his loved ones. As a grandfather, he was a constant presence at his grandchildren’s sporting events, cheering them on with pride and joy.

Dick will be greatly missed for his entertaining stories and one liners.

Dick Gengenbacher’s life was a testament to the power of love, laughter, and hard work. His memory will continue to inspire and guide his family and all who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Pallbearers will be Walker Smith, Wyatt Smith, Max Requet, Nathan Dreyer, Regan Bruenger, Connor Metcalfe, K.J. Mahoney, and Nick Luciani.

Memorial contributions may be made to Quincy Notre Dame or St. Francis Solanus Catholic Church.

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