Eugene S. Sherman

Eugene S. "Gene" Sherman, of Peoria Heights, IL, passed away at his home, surrounded by love and family, on Wednesday, September 24, 2025 at the age of 98 years, 1 month and 26 days.

He was born, in Peoria, to Sylvan Sherman and Alice David Sherman on July 29, 1927. Gene lived on Bourland Ave. with his family, that included brother, Norman and sister, Una Rae.

Gene started working early, passing out play bills at the age of five and then delivered newspapers. He worked at The Zipper on Jefferson and a dry cleaner on Main Street.

Gene and his brother helped their parents buy a home on Vine Street so they could attend Woodruff High School, where he graduated with the class of 1945.

After graduation, he honorably served in the US Army until 1947. Upon his release from the army, Gene attended Bradley University graduating with a business degree in 1950.

Gene's first date with Blanche (Blanka Sepich) was October 8, 1949. He married his sweetheart in 1953, and forever carried a picture of their first date in his wallet. Gene and Blanche built a home in Peoria Height, next to her parents, and started their family, having two daughters.

Gene first worked at Sears and later Caterpillar; where he worked for thirty years, retiring in 1982.

Gene and Blanche moved to Southern California after he retired, where he volunteered with a group rescuing a B29 from the desert at China Lake naval base. The B 29 DOC, which was taken to Wichita to be restored and became Gene's hobby for the rest of his life. He was very happy and proud to have helped rescue the super-fortress, and also to have enjoyed two flights on DOC after it was restored to flying condition.

Gene was an avid reader, interested in a variety of subjects. He had a wonderful sense of humor and a unique view of life. Gene loved taking his family on driving vacations in the summer, traveling all over the country. Gene's family was the most important thing to him, and he was happiest when with his family and close friends. He was always helping someone, quietly.

Gene is survived by his daughters, Julia Sherman of Ridgecrest, California and Laura Sherman of Peoria Heights; five grandchildren Daniel Chapai and Gordon Martin of Ridgecrest, Dennis Chapai and Teresa Graham of Peoria Heights, and Lauren Sherman of Napa, California; eight greatgrandchildren; two great-greatgrandchildren and three nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister, his beloved wife Blanche, and great grandson, Daniel.

Cremation rites have been accorded. The family will have a private burial of ashes at a later date. There will also be a celebration of life at Gene's favorite breakfast spot in October, where he enjoyed many meals with his family and best friend of many decades, Mr. Goldus Jackson, every Thursday morning.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Doc's Friends.

Tributes and condolences may be made at www.wrightandsalmon.com