Eugene Neave

Eugene (Gene) R. Neave, 81 passed away surrounded by his family on August 4, 2007 at the home of his daughter in Zion, IL. Gene was born on April 22, 1926 to parents, James and Clara Neave in Zion, IL and resided there until his retirement. Gene attended Zion Parochial School and graduated from Zion Benton Township High School where he met his soul mate and future wife, Florene (Pudge) Rooks. Gene and Pudge were married on the front porch of the family home on September 11, 1948. He was most recently a resident of Estero, FL and enjoyed summer months in Door County, WI with his family. Gene has been a lifelong member of Christ Community Church in Zion. He holds dual membership at Fort Myers Evangelical Free Church in Fort Myers, FL. As co-owner of Rooks Restaurant, Gene became well known in the community as a businessman, friend and beloved employer. Gene's greatest love was for his wife and family. He enjoyed music, boating, travelling, motorcycles, cooking for large gatherings of friends and family, watching sports of any kind, Pudge's cooking, visiting with many cherished friends and helping others with any work to be done. ene is a veteran of World War II having proudly served his country in the Army/Air Corp. Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Florene; daughters, Susan (Kenyon) Owenson, Cynthia Spivey, and Sally Mintern of Zion; and son, David (Lynette) Neave of Sheboygan, WI. He also leaves his beloved grandchildren, Sarah (Pete) Andreoni, Melissa Rice, Matthew (Pam) Neave, Erik, Daniel, and Joel Neave, James Spivey, Nicole and Rebecca Mintern; and great-grandchildren McKenzie and Kaylen Rice and Gideon Neave. They were the sunshine of his life. Gene was a loving foster parent to Cathy (Griebell) Mintern, Bruce Miller, Tony Bucaro, Randy Zimmer, Kim (Stone) Olsen, Liz Roulette, and Betty. He is also survived by brothers: Don (Ellie) Neave, Bob (Jane) Neave; sisters: Nancy (Ron) Lechelt and Eileen Neave, and many nieces and nephews. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Michael S. Mintern; sister-in-law, Audrey Neave; and numerous aunts and uncles. Family and friends may join to celebrate the life of this special man on Thursday, August 9, 2007. A memorial service will be held at Christ Community Church in Zion at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Ken Langley officiating. Visitation with the family will be held prior to the service beginning at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Eugene Neave Memorial Fund in c/o Congdon Funeral Home, 3012 Sheridan Rd, Zion, IL, 60099.