Eugene Leon John Marcquenski completed his earthly assignment at the age of 94 and granted his wings on February 17, 2026, under Hospice Care at Marshall Browning Hospital in Du Quoin, Illinois. Gene was born February 16, 1932 to Leo and Victoria (Malinski) Marcquenski in Chicago. After graduating from St. Michael Central High School in Chicago, he worked as a technician compounding medicines for a pharmaceutical company. During the Korean War he joined the Army as a medical technician, attaining the rank of corporal. It was his pharmaceutical experience that blessed him and allowed him to remain stateside. After serving his country he worked as a mail carrier for the Chicago Post Office. Gene married Patricia Jean Motzny in 1958 and their union was blessed with four daughters. In 1968 Gene traded city life for country life. He moved his family to Tamaroa and built a loving home and looked after and cared for his parents.
Gene had a varied career in Southern Illinois, from servicing local coal mines for Malinski Tire, hauling rock for Keene Road Builders, and custodian for 3 local schools: District 211, Tamaroa Community High School, and District 204. Custodian was his official capacity but his true calling was his love for kids. Gene had smile that would light up a room and warmed every heart. His wit and sense of humor were magnified by his quick one-liners that he could sneak into every conversation. He was more than a janitor and school bus driver. He was a custodian of the kids—a role model, mentor, and friend to each and every student.
Gene was a huge fan of the Chicago Cubs, and loved playing horseshoes and pinochle at the family's annual camping trips. He loved being at home, relaxing on the porch, feeding the birds, and waving at the passing freight trains behind his house. Gene always looked on the bright side and kindness and generosity were his gifts. Helping those in need was his nature. A man of true faith, he lived out his faith by serving and caring for others. He was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church, and also served as a board member for the Village of Tamaroa during the implementation of the town's water tower and sewer system.
Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Patricia, and four daughters, Diane (Steve) Bailey of Tamaroa, Mary Kay Marcquenski (Tony Boyer) of Belleville, IL, Laura Pestka of Scheller, IL, and Karen (Bob) Cross of Excelsior Springs, MO. Six grandchildren: Emily Drone (Cody Ophoff) of Hastings, MI, Sarah (Butch) Farmer of Marion, IL, Tori Bailey of Indianapolis, IN, Paige (Holden) Kurwicki of O'Fallon, IL, Kyle (Kayla) Brocaille of Lebanon, IL, and Grant Pestka (Haley Szczepanski) of Tamaroa, one step grandson: Derek Cross of Excelsior Springs, MO, five great grandchildren: Moxie and Murphy Farmer, Cameron Kurwicki, Lucy Pestka, anticipated April baby Brocaille, one step great granddaughter: Frankie Cross, and several nieces and nephews. Gene also leaves behind his beloved cat and recliner buddy, Bandit. Gene was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Daniel Marcquenski of Glenview, IL.
Visitation will be at Searby Funeral Home in Tamaroa on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 5 – 7 p.m. A memorial service will begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with Deacon Tony Kellerman officiating. Friends may call from 9 a.m. Saturday until the time of the service. Interment will follow at the Immaculate Conception Cemetery on Park Road in Tamaroa. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Hospice of Southern Illinois, or the Perry County Humane Society, and will be collected at the funeral home. The family would like to thank everyone for your love and support at this time.
2 Timothy 4:7-8
I have fought the good fight; I have finished the race; I have kept the faith. Now waiting for me is the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day—and not only to me, but to all those who have eagerly longed for his appearance.