Eugene (Gene) G Hesselbacher age 82 of McConnell, IL passed away on Wednesday, May 5, 2021 surrounded by his family. He was born May 29, 1938 in JoDaviess County to Ralph and Violet (Winter) Hesselbacher. Eugene and Vivian (Schulz) were married on Oct. 23, 1960 at Amity Lutheran Church in Lena IL and celebrated 60 years of marriage in 2020. Gene served in the US Army Reserves for 6 years. He was an active member at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lena IL and a member of the McConnell Volunteer Fire Dept. since 1977. He attended Stockton High School from 1953-1956 and graduated from Freeport High School in 1957.

He was involved in farming most of his life. For several years he helped the road commissioner with grading roads, mowing and plowing snow. He liked to fish when he had time, enjoyed reading and watching western shows and was a friend to many and always willing to lend a helping hand. Gene had a great sense of humor. He hated shopping but if he had to go, you would always find him starting up a conversation with someone whether he knew them or not. He even enjoyed going out to eat so he could give the waitresses a hard time. He enjoyed being with family and his granddaughters. He will be missed by those who knew him even though he was a great teaser.

He is survived by his wife, Vivian, his daughters, Debbie Hesselbacher of McConnell IL and Amy Hesselbacher and her husband Brad Munda of Freeport IL, two granddaughters, Michaela Munda of St. Paul MN and Celeste Munda of Freeport IL.  Sisters Verlee Kassel of Rockford IL, Kay Hesselbacher of River Falls WI and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother Ralph Jr., brother and sister-in-law, Wayne and Lynne Hesselbacher, Ronald and Peggy Hesselbacher, and brother-in-law Dave Kassel.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021 from 9:00 am – 11:00 am at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 118 E Mason St, Lena IL. Funeral will follow visitation at 11:00 am.

Pastor Miho Yasukawa will be officiating the service.

Burial will take place at Lena Burial Park.

Cremation rites have been accorded.

A memorial fund has been established in his name.