Norman Eugene "Gene" Leibovitz

Gene Leibovitz, charming and handsome gentleman, lover of family & friends & community, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on May 28, 2023.

Gene's list of personal contributions, successes, and hobbies were plentiful in his well-lived 85 years of life. Most would describe Gene as funny and witty. He was always ready to tell a joke or a humorous story. Sports was a main theme in his life and was passed on by him to each of his family members for generations. He loved playing golf weekly and was an avid Cubs fan. Gene graduated from United Township High School in 1955 where he was a starter on the basketball team. Over the years, Gene continued to support UTHS by attending many of their home basketball and football games. His support of the UTHS continued to show when he and his wife "Karen" established an ongoing college scholarship, in memory of their oldest son (Jeff) who passed in 1994. Gene also enjoyed numerous years of playing fast pitch softball. He was also very proud to be on the 2nd place team at the ISC Men's Fast Pitch Softball World Tournament in 1969. He helped launch the Silvis Country Music Festival. He was currently on the Colona Police Commission Board. He was at one time a Silvis Alderman, and founding member of the Silvis Optimus Club. He believed strongly that it was important to support and give back to his community. Gene's family was a big source of pride and honor for him. His love for his children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, and nephews was very apparent throughout his life. He enjoyed family gatherings. Gene's most prideful accomplishment began on March 11, 1955 when he married Karen Marie Dunlap. They were married 63 years. Karen passed away on May 25, 2018. Over the years, they raised 3 children, Jeffrey, Ty Ann, and Jerry, who they adored more than anything. Gene had a good fashion sense that hadn't changed much over the years. On special occasions he would often pull out the "yellow sweater". For over 35 years the "yellow sweater" can be seen in many pictures, which is why his family felt that it was fitting attire for his last outfit and the humor it implies to him and his family. Those around Gene always knew how he felt, he was an honest man who wore his heart visibly on his sleeve for all to see.

Gene was born on December 15, 1936. His parents were Michael and Mable Leibovitz. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, wife (Karen), siblings (Robert and wife Shirley and Beverly and husband Leroy), son (Jeff). Left to cherish his memory, daughter Ty, son Jerry (Valerie), 3 grandchildren Samantha (Bill) Kaufmann, JL (Hayley), Tanner (Niki), 11 great grandchildren, sister Sally, brother Richard "Dick" (Karen), and numerous nieces and nephews. Gene will also be missed by his beloved dog, Sidney.

Funeral services will be 10 am Friday at the Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline. Burial will be in Greenview Memorial Gardens. Visitation will be 3-6 pm Thursday at the Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to the Jeff Lebo Memorial Scholarship

After services, please join the family for a meal at one of Gene's favorite places, Frank's pizza. Grandchildren fondly remember weekends spent with Gene and Karen that always included Frank's pizza and bottles of pop, which is everyone's personal favorite to this day.

Online condolences may be left for the family at www.vanhoe.com