Mr. Gene Huckelberry

Gene Huckelberry, age 81 years, a resident and longtime former mayor of the village of Belknap, passed away Thursday evening, April 26, 2012, at 9:20 PM at Massac Memorial Hospital in Metropolis, Illinois. Gene was born February 10, 1931 in Belknap, Illinois. He was the son of Ralph & Wilma (Crawford) Huckelberry. Gene was united in marriage to Alene (Felker) on November 8, 1952 in Corinth, Mississippi. She survives. Other survivors include: 2 Daughters – Susie & James Smith of Metropolis, IL Janet Barrett & David Hester of Belknap, IL A Son - Paul & Krista Huckelberry of Metropolis, IL 8 Grandchildren - Lisa Palmer and Justin Justin Smith and Crystal Brandi Short and Jamie Brittany Johnson and Nick Bridgett McMurtry and Josh Bergandi Johnson Josef Huckelberry Carissa Huckelberry 5 Great Grandchildren - Jordan Palmer Maci Palmer Landen Randolph Carter Short Lillie Huckelberry A Brother – Johnny & Janine Huckelberry of Vienna, IL A Sister – Martha Burnam of Vienna, IL Nieces and Nephews In addition to his Parents, Gene was preceded in death by: 2 Sons – Robert Dale Huckelberry and Clinton Eugene Huckelberry A Granddaughter – Baily Lynn Johnson 2 Brothers – Joe M. Huckelberry & J.R. Huckelberry 2 Sisters – Pat Huckelberry & Janice Wright Gene was a U.S. Army Ranger and was stationed in Germany during the Korean War. He was a former maintenance employee with Allied Chemical (now Honeywell) in Metropolis, IL. Gene retired in 1994. He was a union representative for the United Steelworkers Union Local # 7-669 in Metropolis. Gene was dedicated to his family, friends, and the Belknap community. He had served for 32 years as a mayor of the village of Belknap. During his tenure as mayor, Gene was instrumental in obtaining grants for the implementation of a community water system, as well as a senior citizens center and upgrades for the fire department. Gene had also served for 34 years as the administrator and operator of the Belknap Water Department. Gene and Alene gave tirelessly of their time and energies for the care and upkeep of the Belknap Masonic Cemetery. Gene also faithfully served for many years as a member of the Cypress School Board and served several terms as board president. Gene was of the Christian faith and was a Past Master of the former Belknap Masonic Lodge. He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals Baseball Fan and enjoyed spending time outdoors. Gene especially enjoyed rabbit, squirrel, and coon hunting as well as trapping. He had achieved the designation of a black belt in karate during his training as an Army Ranger and also was a Golden Glove Boxer. For a period of time, Gene pitched for the Red Sox Minor League Baseball team. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, May 1, 2012, at 11 AM at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Pastor Jerry Huckleberry will officiate. Burial will be in the Belknap Masonic Cemetery. Military graveside rites will be accorded by the Beggs-Gurley VFW Post 5222 and the Illinois National Guard Burial Honors Detail. Visitation will be from 5 PM – 9 PM Monday at Bailey Funeral Home in Vienna. Memorials may be made to the Belknap Masonic Cemetery, c/o Alene Huckelberry, PO Box 144, Belknap, Illinois 62908.

Mr. Gene Huckelberry

February 10, 1931 - April 26, 2012