Gene was born May 25, 1950, in Lincoln, IL to Marvin and Phyllis Winter of Beason.
He was a skilled electrician at Caterpillar for 30 years. He enjoyed riding motorcycles, boating, skiing and collecting. Gene was an avid amateur (HAM) radio operator (WA9W) and a member of the Bloomington and Peoria HAM radio clubs. He was the valedictorian of Beason High School and a graduate of Illinois State University. Gene played the saxophone, bass guitar and was a fan of rock music – rock on Gene!
Gene is survived by his brother Steven (Debby) Winter of Bloomington; four nieces and nephews Erin (Chad) Keefe, Chrissy (Steve) Rustemeyer, Tim (Kelly) Winter and Scott (Ashley) Winter; nine great-nieces and great-nephews: William Keefe, Andrew Rustemeyer, Mackenzie Winter, Delaney Keefe, Tyler Rustemeyer, Allison Rustemeyer, Joselyn Winter, August Winter and Amelia Winter.
Gene was preceded in death by his father, mother, and brother Terry Winter.
A private graveside family service will be held at the Evergreen Cemetery in Waynesville.
Quiram-Peasley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
