GALESBURG — Gene Benton Endthoff, 91, of Galesburg, Illinois, died at 8:08 p.m. Thursday, May 2, 2024 at Seminary Manor, Galesburg.

Gene was born December 16, 1932 in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, the son of Benton and Clara (Haasl) Endthoff.  Gene married Betty Lou Hill on June 17, 1951 in Rochelle, Illinois.  He went on to serve in the US Army from January 6, 1953 until he was honorably discharged on January 5, 1955, attaining the rank of Sergeant.  Gene worked as a building official for Rochelle, Illinois for many years and later as a building official for Odessa, Texas.  He last worked as the Director of Codes for the National Fire Sprinkler Association, retiring in 2005.

Gene is survived by one daughter, Susan Hite of Galesburg; one son, Dan (Laura) Endthoff of Galesburg; and seven grandchildren.  Gene is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 71 years, Betty on September 12, 2022; two sons, Thomas Gene in 1958 and Robb Gene on December 20, 2017; and one sister.

Having a mind for design and construction, Gene enjoyed building many different things from homes to model trains.  He was passionate about fire sprinklers saving lives and retrofitted two of his homes with fire sprinklers. Always having enjoyed watching trains, Galesburg proved a great fit.  He loved history and studied World War II extensively.  Gene also enjoyed reading and later listening to book by his favorite author Louis L’Amour.

Cremation will be accorded.  Graveside services will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, May 11, 2024 at Lawnridge Cemetery, Rochelle, Illinois.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg.  Memorial contributions may be directed to Wounded Warriors or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.