Edward  Eugene “Gene” Bolerjack, 99, of Mount Vernon, Illinois, passed away at 8:33 pm April 29, 2025 at Nature Trail Health Care Center in Mount Vernon. He was born October 3, 1925 in Mount Vernon, Illinois to the late Elmer Bolerjack and Aletha Opal (Hanks) Puckett. Gene married Betty H. (Brown) Bolerjack on March 9, 1946 in Mount Vernon. She preceded him in death on December 25, 2018.

Gene is survived by his children, Terry Bolerjack and wife, Jeanie of Leawood, Kansas, Tom Bolerjack and wife, Marybeth of Austin, Texas, Julie (Bolerjack) Chapman and husband, John of Palatine, Illinois, and Rob Bolerjack of Mount Vernon; grandchildren, Ted Bolerjack and wife, Danielle, Melissa (Bolerjack) Newman and husband, Brian, Christine Bolerjack, Steven Pardo and wife, Amy, Jonathan Pardo and wife, Cara, James Chapman, Katie Chapman, and Rachel (Bolerjack) Burk and husband, Jordan; eleven great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; and nieces, and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, Gene was preceded in death by his grandson, Jason Bolerjack.

Gene was a proud WWII veteran, serving his country in the United States Army Air Corps. He was the owner and operator of Bolerjack’s Market for 40 years and the Jefferson County Circuit Clerk for 18 years. Gene served as a District 80 School Board Member and Former Mount Vernon Police Commissioner.

Gene was loved by everyone who knew him. He was an exceptional, yet humble man who always chose to see the best in people, bringing warmth and kindness wherever he went. Gene was a devoted Christian and a member of Central Christian Church. Known for his humor and lighthearted spirit, Gene’s good nature was infectious. He was a dedicated St. Louis Cardinals fan and found joy in the simple pleasures of life. His quiet strength and unconditional love left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege and joy of knowing him. Many have said they have never met a better man than Gene Bolerjack. His friends and family will sorely miss him.

A Funeral Service will be held Friday, May 2, 2025 at 11:00 am at Mount Vernon Memorial Gardens Chapel in Woodlawn, Illinois with Mr. J. Howard Kraps officiating. Interment will follow at Mount Vernon Memorial Gardens. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Edward ‘s honor to the Alzheimer’s Association or the local YMCA.

Call Hughey Funeral Home at 618-242-3348 or visit hugheyfh.com for further information.