Gene "Gator" Wirtjes

Gene "Gator" Wirtjes obituary

Gene "Gator" Wirtjes

Gene Wirtjes Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Meredith-Waddell Funeral Home - Herrin on Oct. 3, 2025.

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Gene Arthur "Gator" Wirtjes, 80, of Herrin, passed away Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center CLC in Marion, IL.

Gator was an independent truck driver that contracted with Bekins Moving Company for around 32 years.

Gator was a veteran of the U. S. Army. He was a member of the Herrin American Legion Post #645.

Gator was born December 30, 1944, in Albert Lea, Minnesota to Clarence W. & Hazel L. (Turbett) Wirtjes.

Gator married Ruth (Bolt) Johnson on March 3, 1989, in Fort Collins, Colorado. She survives him at their home in Herrin.

He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, Wayne & Nancy Wirtjes of Des Moines, IA and other extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Judy Marie Blunt and Linda Kuiken; and brothers, James Mensch, Larry Dean Wirtjes, and Bob Duygel.

Gator's wishes were to be cremated; a memorial service will be held at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to the Community Living Center at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center, 2401 South Main Street, Marion, IL 62959.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

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