Alfred Eugene Burton

July 24, 1924 – January 29, 2026

Freeport, IL

Alfred Eugene “Gene” Burton, age 101, of Freeport, IL passed away peacefully with family by his side on January 29, 2026. Gene was preceded in death by his parents John Franklin Burton and Emily Voce Dyer Burton, his wife Joann Jacobs Burton, as well as his beloved daughter Sharon. He was born in Greene, Iowa on July 24, 1924.

He is survived by stepchildren Scott (Sally), Jim (Margie), Jon (Carol) and Bob (Kathy) and grandchildren Curtis, Zachary (Christine), Lindsay (Keith), Lauren (Alex) and Bobby. He was also blessed to have 7 great-grandchildren (Miles, Quinn, Simone, Reid, Evie, Lucy, and Andie Gene)

Gene was a true American hero. Growing up in Lena, IL he was a very popular and active youth participating in high school basketball, softball, track, student council, glee club, band, and more. Lena held a special place in heart for his entire life; he would return there regularly and worked out there until very recently. He took great pride in his regular workout routine.

After a year at Manchester College in Indiana, WWII called and Gene answered. He deployed from San Diego at age 19 for the Philippines. He was entrusted by the Army to drive Jeeps for officers and stayed in touch with them and other Army buddies throughout life.

Gene had a very successful career managing and / or owning several water treatment retail businesses culminating with his position as sales and marketing manager of Kinetico where he retired in 1994. At that time, he stayed busy running his own dealership in “retirement”.

In his spare time, he loved to play golf not only for the competitive aspect but most importantly for the social aspect and the relationships he had with many friends in Freeport and Sun City, AZ. He recalled his time growing up caddying at the Lena Golf Club and the lessons he learned through golf. He also took great pride in his appearance whether that was on the golf course or a night on the town, he always looked sharp.

In 1996, Gene married Joey Jacobs Burton and called it the best thing that ever happened to him. They shared the same values and lived their lives to the fullest. They zig zagged across the country and traveled Europe on multiple occasions.

Adventure was always in his DNA. He rode a horse at age 95, a jet ski at 97, and drove his beloved corvette until he was 100.

Gene was especially happy around his grandkids and great grandkids. He had a special relationship with each of them and often shared his love for music and dance. Never one to sit still, he was more than willing to travel the country for trips to spend time with family.

Gene will be remembered by family and friends for his quiet approach, soft smile, love for life, and being a role model to all. He inspired us all in so many ways.

God Bless you Grandpa Gene

Services will be held at Burke-Tubbs funeral home in Freeport, IL on Monday, February 16. Visitation 10:30 – 11:30 am with service at 11:30. The ceremony will be followed by burial at Lena Burial Park in Lena, IL. Everyone is welcome to join the family for lunch at Coach’s in Lena.

In Lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to the memorial in Gene’s name.