Gene E. Montee

Gene Montee, “Poppy”, 100, of Olathe, Kansas

Gene Montee, a cherished resident and “spokesman” of the Healthcare Resort of Olathe, passed away peacefully on May 5th, at the age of 100. Born on September 9, 1924, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to Goldie Mae Palmer and Earl Merle Montee. Gene's century-long life was marked by generosity, resilience, a passion for music, and an unwavering dedication to bringing a smile to everyone he met.

As a graduate of Pittsburg High School in 1942, Gene was very active, a band leader, and known as the entertainer of his high school. After graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in the Marshall Islands during World War II. Gene continued to lift spirits, putting on shows in Majuro and bringing laughter to his fellow servicemen. After the war, he returned home and earned his degree from Pittsburg State University while DJing a local radio station, and playing drums for his dance band performing all over Southeast Kansas.

In 1948, Gene married his beloved Marjorie on their shared birthday of September 9th. Their love story began when Gene was playing a pinball machine called “Marjorie,” and heard the most beautiful laugh coming from the booth behind him. He turned to see the woman whose laugh would change his life. Lucky for him, she was sitting with his friends, Bonnie and Jean Mason. From that moment, Gene was smitten by Marjorie, and their union became a testament to enduring love and partnership. The couple lived in Olathe for nearly 60 years, staying heavily involved with Kansas School for the Deaf and attending St Paul's Catholic Church. Monthly visits with their best friends, Bonnie and Jean, kept their families growing up together. Often Gene was asked why he didn't remarry. He would say, “If you drive the most beautiful Cadillac for 57 years why would I ever drive a Ford?”

Gene spent his professional life in the insurance sector and co-founded Ozark Life Insurance Company. True to form, he was not only a businessman but also often provided the entertainment at Ozark functions to lift spirits and bring laughter to his agents. Gene left a legacy in the industry that could never be measured in dollars, only an abundance of generosity, humor, and a deep love he shared so freely. He treasured his success that came from the life-long friendships he gained over his career.

After Marge's passing, Gene delighted in living for 14 years with his granddaughter, Debbie Montee Ross, her husband Jason, and watching their three sons, Caden, Henry, and Chuck grow up. His presence brought warmth and laughter to their home and to everyone he met.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie [Talley]; his sons, Nick and Mark; and his granddaughter, Ruan. He is survived by his grandson, Nick Montee of Jay, Oklahoma, his children, Savannah and Nicky; as well as his granddaughter, whom he and Marjorie raised, Debbie Montee Ross, her husband Jason, and their sons, Caden, Henry, and Chuck.

Gene filled every day with joy, laughter, and connection. His stories, sense of humor, and ability to make others smile will be fondly remembered and dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Interment will be held at 1:00p on Friday, May 9, 2025 at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, 8300 Quivira Rd, Lenexa, KS 66215, with veteran honors provided by Basehor VFW Post 11499. A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00pm on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at Penwell-Gabel's Olathe Chapel, 14275 S. Black Bob Rd., Olathe, KS 66062, with visitation to follow until 5:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kaw River Chapter of Bikers Against Child Abuse (B.A.C.A.), an organization close to the family’s heart and serving those also in need of smiles.

Kaw River Chapter - BACA
PO Box 12615
Kansas City, Kansas 66112

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