Eugene L. “Gene” Voss

Eugene L. “Gene” Voss, 90, of Peoria, Illinois passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, July 23, 2022. Gene was surrounded by his family and his loving wife Margaret. Margaret was the love of his life and they greeted each other each day with a “Hi Sweetheart” and a kiss. They never missed a chance to move the coffee table out of the living room, turn up a big band song and dance. They always captured attention at any wedding, party or just a Saturday night when they danced, gliding together across the floor. Gene and Marg would have been married 70 years on September 1. They spent most of their life raising kids and opening their doors to family, friends and strangers throughout the years. 

Gene worked at Caterpillar for nearly 50 years as an accountant. He was an avid athlete, playing volleyball into his 70s. He was an active member of St Philomena Church as well as the men’s club. Gene was a regular blood donor and donated over 33 gallons of blood to the Red Cross. 

To his kids, he was a loving father who always taught us the value of hard work, being honest and doing our best. Everyone who met Gene knew his love of his family. He was the one we looked to for advice or for him to lend a hand working on a home project. He would travel to each of our houses to help swing a hammer or complete a project. We always learned something working with dad. 

Gene is survived by his wife Margaret (Werthmann) Voss, his children Steve and Phi Hong Voss of California, Connie Voss (Tim deceased) of Peoria ,Betty and Doug Mitchell of Texas, Bill and Cindy Voss of North Carolina, Jane and Eric Bailey of North Carolina, Tom and Karen Voss of Edwards Illinois, Tony and Angie Voss of Peoria, Paul and Jane Voss of Chicago, his sister, Sister Betty Voss BVM, of Dubuque Iowa, as well as 24 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. He was proceeded in death by his parents and two brothers, and his son Tim. Each of these family members loved grandpa and enjoyed playing password or doing crossword puzzles with him. Dad’s mastery of the English language was passed on to each of us. We will all miss dad, pop, grandpa and just Gene, but are filled with his many memories. 

We appreciate all the friends and family who sent meals, stopped in, and did what was needed to make it possible for dad to stay in his home all these years. We would also like to say we appreciate Jenny (friend of the family) and Sibby (grandchild) for all of your help and care and hours over the years. Also  to Traditions Hospice Care for your loving way you helped us all. As a last selfless act, Dad donated his remains to University of Iowa (his alma mater) Medical School so that others may benefit from his life. 

A Catholic Mass and celebration of life will be done at a later date to allow for all the family and friends to plan. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the charity of your choice. 

Friends and family may sign the online guestbook by logging onto www.wrightandsalmon.com.