Eugene "Gene" Politsch, 89, passed away on March 18, 2025, just two days shy of his 90th birthday at OSF St. Paul, surrounded by his family.

Gene was born in Mendota on March 20, 1935, to Fred and Ruth (Hurst) Politsch. He married the love of his life, Carolyn (Taylor) on June 21, 1959. Gene and Carolyn spent 55 years together before her passing in 2014. After graduating from Mendota High School, Gene served in the Army and spent time in Alaska from 1954-1956. Upon his return to the lower 48, Gene began working for Leo and Virginia Classon at Classon's Super Foods. In 1972, he and Carolyn purchased the store and proudly owned it until their retirement, in 1997.

In retirement, Gene and Carolyn traveled across North America in their RV, spending winters in Florida, Arizona, and Texas. Gene literally preferred the road less traveled, mapping out their journey on backroads and state highways. They made lifelong friends around the country, whether it was in the RV park or on the golf course.

When he wasn't working or traveling, Gene could be found at the Mendota Golf Course, where he was a longtime member. He served on the Board of Directors at Eureka Savings Bank, was a member of the Mendota Chamber of Commerce, and a member of the Illinois Food Retailers Association.

Gene found joy in the simple pleasures of life: a slice of pie with ice cream, a warm cup of coffee with friends, and a round of golf with strangers. He was the last in his generation and will be missed dearly.

Gene was proceeded in death by his parents; his wife, Carolyn; brothers Bill and Bob Politsch; and an infant daughter, Pamela.

He is survived by son, Randy (Jane) Politsch of Mendota; daughter, Peggy (Mike) Vance of Bettendorf, IA; five grandchildren, Reid (Emily) Politsch, Kacey (Michael) Chezum, Megan Vance, Jarrah (Spencer) Stephens, Logan (Paige) Vance; six great grandchildren, Colette and Collins Chezum, Jack, Jett, and Stella Stephens, Eloise Vance and cherished family friend, who was like his daughter, Michele Meyer.

Visitation will be held at Horner-Merritt Funeral Home in Mendota, on March 24 from 10 am-1 pm. Burial will follow at Restland Cemetery. Contributions to the family will be used to establish a memorial in Gene's honor. Please visit www.horner-merritt.com to sign the online guest book.