Gene Skinner's Obituary
Gene A. Skinner, 62, of DuQuoin, IL, passed away on Monday, December 15, 2025 at SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale.
A Funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Monday, December 22, 2025 at Hohlt & File Funeral Home, Vandalia with Rev. PeeWee Denton officiating. Interment will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery, Loogootee. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 12:00 PM-2:00PM, Monday, at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers and gifts, memorials may be made to Pleasant Grove Cemetery, DuQuoin Fire Department, or New Horizons Church of St. Elmo. Online condolences can be expressed at https://www.hohltandfilefh.com.
Gene Allen Skinner was born May 22, 1963, in Vandalia, Illinois, the son of Melvin Eugene Skinner and Barbara (Kistler) Skinner-Hoover. Gene graduated from Vandalia Community High School in 1981, he then pursued a higher education at Southern Illinois University of Carbondale, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business, equipping him with valuable skills for his entrepreneurial endeavors.
Throughout his life, Gene demonstrated his commitment to public safety and community welfare. He served as a dedicated firefighter with the DuQuoin Fire Department, exemplifying bravery and selflessness. In addition to his firefighting duties, he managed his own lawn care business, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic. His professional pursuits also included employment as a crop surveyor for the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Gene's passions extended beyond his professional life. He was an avid outdoorsman, finding joy in activities such as fishing, hunting, mushroom foraging, and gardening. These pursuits not only provided personal fulfillment but also connected him deeply with nature. He was also passionate about cooking, often preparing a variety of fresh preserves, which highlighted his culinary skills and appreciation for homemade foods.
Gene demonstrated one final act of heroism by choosing to be an organ and tissue donor. His decision to donate exemplifies his altruistic nature and commitment to helping others, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and generosity.
He is survived by his sister, Debbie and husband David Richards of Johnston, IA; brother, Dan Skinner and wife Belinda of Brownstown; brother, David Skinner of Cathedral City, CA; sister, Peggy Roberts of Vandalia; brother, Dean Skinner and wife Julie of West Port, MA; nine nieces and nephews; numerous great- nieces and great-nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Melvin Skinner; mother and stepfather, Barbara and Julius “Dude” Hoover; and brother, James Skinner.
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