Gene Morse

MORTON – Gene Morse, 85, of Morton, entered Heaven peacefully surrounded by his loving family in his home on Sunday, June 4, 2023.

He was born on April 7, 1938, in Evansville, Ind. Gene is deeply loved by his wife, Judy, of 63 years.

His greatest accomplishment is his family legacy created with his loving wife, beginning with his four daughters, the late Kimberly (Brad) Gregurich, Stacey (Erik) Anderson, Michelle (Bruce) Bennett and Allison (Eric) Dicks. His daughters knew they could always count on Dad for endearing advice, a good laugh and making lasting family memories. His grandchildren were blessed to have him as Papa and their biggest supporter – the late Taylor (Shane) McCafferty, Baylie (Austin) Craig, Tate (Ellie) Anderson, Abbey (Matt) Blackwell, Hayden (Corey) Dullard, Addison Bennett, Bryce Bennett and Sage Dicks. Step grandchildren, Brian (Ashley) Anderson, Brett (Katie) Anderson and Bobby (Katie) Anderson. Gene faithfully attended all of the grandchildren’s activities and is well-known as “Papa” and loved by all. He created priceless memories with his nieces and great grandchildren who he adored so much. He was looking forward to three more great grandchildren on the way.

Gene was the son of Randall and Margaret Morse. He had two brothers, the late Tommy Morse and Dave (Lora) Morse of Mountain Home, Ark.

Gene earned his Certified Life Underwriter designation. He helped his many customers with financial, life and health benefits. Gene was a partner in the Unruh & Morse agency in Peoria. He made his clients lifelong friends.

Gene and Judy’s stewardship with Morton United Methodist Church inspired many and their entire family to a Christian life. His lasting legacy with Judy began at Bradley University, where he was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity and played basketball on Bradley’s first NIT Championship Team in 1957. Gene remained active in the life of Bradley University as an alumni and he was honored to be the recipient of the prestigious Lydia Moss Bradley Award given in recognition of his outstanding commitment and service to Bradley University. He was a member of Bradley Athletic Hall of Fame, the Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame and IHSA Illinois Basketball Coaches Hall of Fame. Gene was a commissioner of the Morton Park District for several years.

His love for his family was such a great example to all who knew him. We will be forever grateful for all of our quality time together at Oak Run, family vacations and Papa’s famous fish fries. He will be greatly missed and will forever remain in our hearts.

A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 12, 2023, at Morton United Methodist Church, with Pastor Bill Novak and Pastor Adam Penn officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday, June 11, at the church. Burial will be at Hirstein Cemetery in Morton.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in Gene’s name to Morton United Methodist Church.

We are forever grateful for the excellent care that Carle Home Health Care and OSF Hospice gave to our family.