Eugene Alfred Rodely

Gene Rodely, 79, of Du Quoin passed away at 1:45 P.M., Sunday, April 20, 2003 at Fair View Nursing Center in Du Quoin after a valiant and determined fight for fifteen years against Parkinsons Disease and its complications.
Eugene "Gene" Rodely was born in the Paradise Prairie region of Perry County, IL on August 26, 1923 to his parents, George A. Rodely and Clara Marie Koenig Rodely.  
He married Patricia (Patsy) Ellen Alvis on July 25, 1943 at St. Genevieve, Missouri and she passed away December 2, 1998.
Surviving children include: Eugene P. Rodely and wife Wanda of Du Quoin, Roger A. Rodely and wife Melissa of West Frankfort, IL, Jo Ellen Rodely of Du Quoin, Jack L. Rodely and wife Andrea of Dallas, TX, and David A. Rodely and wife Sharon of Jonesboro, AR, granddaughters - Stacey Davis, Crisey Fenton, Chasity Cruz, Dia Rodely, Macey Rodely, grandsons - Eugene III, Joshua, Daniel, and Lars Rodely and four great grandchildren, his Mother-in-law - Charity Alvis of Du Quoin, one brother - George Rodely of Du Quoin, and one sister - Freda Robinson of Ottowa, IL.
He was preceded in death by his wife, both parents, one son and one daughter in infancy, and his brother - William Rodely.
Gene Rodely Sr. owned, operated and was manager of Rodely's Farm Equipment Inc. in Du Quoin from 1942 to 1997, until the business was closed by auction.  He was an active farmer most of his life.  Rodely was elected to the seat of Perry County Commissioner for four consecutive terms 1980-1996 (the longest to date).  He very much enjoyed being involved in politics, knowing and helping the people in Southern Illinois.  He was a member of the First Christian Church in Du Quoin, IL.
Throughout his life, Gene was asked to give input on community programs and issues.  He was involved with the U of I Extension Service, served with the Soil and Water Conservation District, was seated on the Perry County Health Board for fourteen years, served on the Greater Egypt Planning Commission of which he was the chairman two years.  Gene also traveled with colleagues from this commission to Washington DC to lobby for this group.  He was also on the Advisory Board for John A. Logan Agricultural Department in past years.  He recalled fondly that being a Khourey League coach and an active member of the DHS Booster Club were some of his most enjoyed and treasured times.
Funeral services were at 11:00 A.M., Wednesday, April 23, 2003 at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin with Bro. Percy Pavloff officiating.
Friends called from 5 to 8 P.M., Tuesday at the Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin.
Interment was in the Sunset Memorial Park at Du Quoin.
Friends may make memorials to DHS Booster Club.
