Gene Rickman, born on January 1st, 1946, in Springfield, Illinois, passed away on April 1st, 2025, in Decatur, Illinois. He was 79 years old. Gene proudly served in the United States Army, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Their military service was not only a defining chapter of their life but also their proudest accomplishment. Gene lived and breathed the values instilled during their time in uniform—discipline, honor, and dedication—and carried those principles throughout their life. Gene is lovingly remembered by their wife Velma; sons Kevin, Brian, and Jeff; and grandsons Mason, Asiaiah, Tyrone, and Darrious. Their legacy lives on through the family they cherished and the memories they created together. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 3:30 PM (weather permitting) will be inside the pavilion if raining. at Spitler Woods, located at 705 Spitler Park Drive in Mt. Zion, Illinois (62549). In accordance with Gene’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral service. He wished to be cremated and have his ashes reside with his wife. Instead, loved ones will gather at Gene’s favorite place to honor their memory in a setting that brought them peace and joy. May Gene Rickman’s memory bring comfort to all who knew them and serve as a lasting reminder of a life lived with purpose and pride.