Eugene Willard Cox, age 81, Peoria, passed away on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at his home.

Gene was born on March 16, 1942, in Centerville, IA to Ernest Fay and Ruth Elnora (Michael) Cox. He had married Judith Conner in September of 1975 in Davenport, Iowa.

Surviving are his significant other, Jan Lenzen of Chaska, MN; his children, Misty Kormann of Davenport, IA, Charles (Tonya) Cox of Florida, and Tiffany (Chad) Timmerman of Chillicothe, IL; his grandchildren, Kole Kormann, Kain (Heather) Kormann, Taylor, Drew and Haley Cox and Devon, Caden and Madeline Timmerman; and many great-grandchildren. Also surviving are his brothers, Tom (Linda) Cox and Bill (Eleanor) Cox; his sisters, Marge Brandenburg and Kathy (Gary) Lord and many nieces and nephews. His lifelong friend, Walter Hartley, also survives. He was preceded in death by his parents; his son-in-law, Kevin Kormann; his grandson, Kye Kormann; his brother, James “Butch” Cox; his sister, Ruth Clark; and his lifelong friend, Mark Sager.

Gene served his country in the U.S. Navy. He then worked as a Planning Engineer for Caterpillar for over 30 years when he retired. He was a member of the Peoria Heights Navy-Marine Club, the Seymour Alumni Association, the Peoria Heights and Chillicothe VFWs, and Disabled American Veterans. He also enjoyed golfing and fishing. 

Cremation rites will be accorded and a Celebration of Life Luncheon will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023 at Timber Ridge in Lacon beginning at noon. Memorials in Gene’s name may be made to the Seymour Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. Arrangements are under the care of Weber-Hurd Funeral Home in Chillicothe.