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Eugene "Gene" Kristoff
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Eugene Kristoff Obituary
ELKVILLE -Eugene "Gene" Kristoff, a beloved father, brother, uncle, proud Navy veteran, and local business owner, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, at the age of 81.
Born on May 10, 1944, in Carbondale to Anthony 'Tony' Kristoff Jr. and Sophia (Rumkus) Kristoff, Gene led a life marked by hard work, dedication, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends.
Gene pursued higher education and proudly earned his Bachelor's Degree at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, which laid the foundation for his successful career as a civil engineer at Consolidated Coal. Later, as a local business owner, he poured his heart and soul into his own business, Gene's Lounge, leaving a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of working alongside him. His steady spirit, kindness, and generosity will be remembered by colleagues and friends alike.
A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Gene served his country with honor and integrity during the Vietnam War. His military service instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and responsibility, virtues he carried into every aspect of his life.
Gene is survived by his children, Christie Jo and Stephen Edward both of Murphysboro; sister, Judy Brewer of Blanco, Texas; brother, Larry Kristoff of Anna; and many close family and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Roger Kristoff.
As we celebrate Eugene's remarkable life, his family invites all who knew him to join in honoring his legacy. Memorial services for Gene with military honors will be at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, in Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale, with Pastor Adell Anderson officiating. Visitation will be from 2 p.m. until the service time on Saturday. We will gather to share stories, laughter and perhaps a few tears, as we remember this extraordinary man who touched so many lives.
Gene's spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him. May he rest in peace, knowing the profound impact he made on this world.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Francis CARE Animal Shelter or the donor's choice of a no kill animal shelter.
Meredith Funeral Home in Carbondale assisted the family with arrangements. To leave a story or memory of Gene visit www.meredithfh.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memorial Events
for Eugene Kristoff
Sep
6
Funeral services provided by:
Meredith Funeral Home - Carbondale300 S. University Avenue, Carbondale, IL 62901
Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Kristoff
Sponsored by Meredith Funeral Home - Carbondale.
3 Entries
Anna
August 30, 2025
Thoughts and prayers to all of you he was an awesome person inside and out knew me by name every time I walked in and always had the biggest smile on his face that just lite up the room !!! RIP My Friend Anna
Katie
August 30, 2025
Gene was a very dear friend. And one of the best bosses I could´ve ever asked for. He loved to argue. Or as he told me, he didn´t argue he was debating. And if that man liked you, he would be your friend for life. He could be one of the hardheaded, stubborn son of a guns you ever met, but he had a heart of gold. He would help just about anyone. And I never had to worry when I work for him, or even when I wasn´t working for him. I knew he always had my back. You will be missed. Love you for ever GeneO
R.I.P.
Shorty Kelley
August 29, 2025
Gene-o, you came and tried to rescue me by changing the spark plug wires on the police car. Turned out neither of us escaped! - Your good friend Shorty Kelley.
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