L. Taylor

L. Eugene “Gene” Taylor, 93, of Rockford passed away Thursday, February 6, 2020, in Independence Village. Born June 16, 1926, in Rockford, the son of Lyman V. and Edith (Clark) Taylor. Graduated from Harlem High School, Class of 1944. Married Marilyn L. Lundgren on September 20, 1947, in Rockford. Formerly employed as a farmer for 21 years, partner with North Park Hardware for 6 years and was a truck driver for 10 years, retiring in 1990. Following Gene’s retirement, he drove the funeral coach for Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., from 1991 to 2010 and was caretaker for Harlem Cemetery from 1990 to 2008, where he also served on the cemetery board since 1970. Member of Willow Creek Presbyterian Church. Volunteer and trustee of North Park Fire Department for 30 years. Survivors include his; daughter, Kathleen Lee; son, Tom (Barb) Taylor; grandchildren, Brian (Carrie) Lee, Brad (Jenni) Lee, Justin (Alyssa) Taylor and Kelsey (Jason) Liesen; great-grandchildren, Ava, Isaac, Elinore, Adalynn, Audrey, Amelia, Grace and Jacob; numerous nieces and nephews; special friend, Nettie Parker; and close friends. Predeceased by his parents; wife, Marilyn; brothers, Maurice and Everette; sister, Alma Louise; and son-in-law, Bill Lee. Special thanks to Independence Village, Northern Illinois Hospice and All Life Solutions for their loving care.

Service at 11 a.m. Wednesday, February 12, in Delehanty Funeral Home, Ltd., 401 River Lane, Loves Park. Burial in Harlem Cemetery. Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 11, in the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, a memorial will be established.