Gene A. Stienecker

Gene A. Stienecker, 84, of Rockford, died Tuesday, February 2, 2021 in his home. Born February 8, 1936 in Thomasville, GA; son of Walter and Irna (Ackerman) Stienecker.

Gene earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in 1959. Shortly after, he relocated to Rockford and worked for many years at Ingersoll Machine Tools, Inc. Gene was a longtime and proud member of the Lombardi Club and a member of the YMCA. In retirement, he was a member of the Ingersoll FARTS Group. He volunteered at local area schools to help children read and write. He was awarded the Ken-Rock Community Center’s Senior Volunteer of the Year for his work with at-risk youth. Gene’s favorite thing to do was to spend time with his grandchildren and he never missed one of their games. The bleachers will never be the same without his presence. His grandchildren were the light of his life and he cherished his unique bond with each of them. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his children, Kristy (Larry) Hansen, Gene “Skip” Stienecker and Erin Tulley; grandchildren, Jordan Hall, Nicholas (Kaori) Hall, Trenten and Grant Hansen, Zachary and Paxton Tulley and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Paul Stienecker.

Due to Covid-19, a Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Memorials in Gene’s name may be made to the American Heart Association. Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Mulford Chapel, assisted the family. Share online condolences at www.fitzgeraldfh.com.