Eugene William (Gene) Busch Sr., 96 of Cahokia, IL Born September 27,1926 in St. Louis, MO, passed away on September 8,2023 at the Dammert Care Center in Belleville, IL

Gene was a U.S. Army Korean War Veteran (7th infantry division), member of the American Legion, and Machinist Union 777. Gene had a lifelong love of automobiles and upon returning from the service, he worked as a certified auto mechanic for Anderson Brothers Automotive and remained until retirement. He enjoyed playing 2nd base on a neighborhood softball team. He also had a passion for vegetable gardening and for many years maintained a large garden that he loved tending and sharing his produce with friends, neighbors, and relatives.  He took pride in his yard and loved riding his John Deere lawn tractor.  He also dabbled with the guitar, harmonica, and ukulele for his family's enjoyment. Gene remained close with his cherished boyhood friends, spending time at the casino, playing pool or just visiting and talking about the good old days. He was a loving and devoted husband of 66 years and wonderful father who will be missed beyond measure.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents John L. and Elizabeth (Ritzel) Busch, sisters Mabel and Mary Louise and daughter Janette.

Surviving are his loving wife of 66 years Berenice Busch (Lenz), children, Laura (Scott) Kish; Theresa (Steve) Gourley; Gene Busch Jr (Sherri Cumbow); grandchildren, Victoria Gourley and Scott Kish Jr.; many loved nephews and nieces, great and great-great nephews, and nieces.Many thanks to our very dear Home Care givers, the staff at Memorial Hospital, Dammert Care Center, and Family Hospice for their compassionate and loving care at the end of Eugene's life.

Memorials may be made to Greater St. Louis Honor Flight, Disabled American Veterans, Family Hospice Salvation Army or Shriners.

Visitation will be on Friday, September 15th from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Braun Family Funeral Home 265 Quarry Road Columbia, IL.  Funeral Services will begin at 12:00pm with Pastor Roger Reid officiating at the funeral home.  Burial will be in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis