Eugene M. Drzewiecki

UTICA – Eugene “Gene” M. Drzewiecki, age 74, of Utica, passed away Tuesday, October 20, 2015, at Unity Point Methodist Hospital in Peoria, surrounded by his loving family.

Visitation will take place Sunday, November 1, at Gladfelter Funeral Home from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  A celebration of Gene’s life will take place from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at John’s North Star in LaSalle.

Gene was born August 25, 1941 in Chicago, Illinois, a son of Edward and Cecelia (Flieger) Drzewiecki.  He married Carole M. Arends on May 11, 1963 in South Holland, IL.  He is survived by his wife, Carole; a son, Eugene Edward Drzewiecki of Utica; and two daughters, Beth (Paul) Schrik of Ottawa and Lisa (Debby Busse) Drzewiecki of Tinley Park; a sister-in-law, Diane Arends of Batavia; his mother-in-law, Eleanor Arends of Peru; five grandchildren: Nicole (Jake) Kowalczyk of Peru, Jillian Drzewiecki of Mendota, Kimberly Drzewiecki of Oglesby, P.J. “Partner” Schrik and Jacob “Junior” Schrik; and many nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers, Edward and Robert Drzewiecki, and a sister Marlene Denton.

Gene spent his working years as a diesel mechanic and worked his way up to shop foreman at Cassens Transport before he retired.  In his retirement he cherished spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  He also enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, watching birds, cutting the grass, and relaxing in his yard.  He enjoyed history, watching drag racing, and cooking.  He was known as a Jack of all trades because he liked woodworking, tinkering, and could fix almost anything.  He was drawn to favor a particular cat which he named Mooch.  He spent time on the Utica Planning Commission.  He was a kind and caring man, and was always there to help a friend or neighbor in need.  Gene will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Memorial Contributions may be directed to Mayo Clinic Cancer Research or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.