Gene Edward Yonker, 83 of Taylorville, passed away at 6:15a.m. on Thursday, May 21, 2020 in his home.  He was born on January 26, 1937 in Taylorville, the son of Homer Clyde and Dorothy Loraine (Kuntzman) Yonker.  He married Wilneta Marie Lamb on February 9, 1957 in the 1st Baptist Church in Taylorville.  Gene retired from the ComEd power plant in 2002.  He was a member of Grace Baptist Church.  Gene had a passion for boating, not only spending time on the water, but also working on antique boat motors as a member of the Antique Outboard Motor Club.  He was gifted with his hands, he enjoyed tinkering with anything and building.  He has a heart for animals of all kinds.  Above all, he loved his family and was devoted to them.  

He is survived by his wife: Wilneta Yonker of Taylorville; daughters: Barbara Barra (Tom) of Taylorville, Susan L. Whittaker of Kincaid, and Cheryl D. Martin of Taylorville; grandchildren: Angela Gonzalez, Heather Alwerdt, Kara Yonker, Lauren Tyler, Cody Pugsley, Chad Pugsley, David Whittaker, and John Martin; 6 great grandchildren; and brothers: Darrell Yonker of Albuquerque, New Mexico, Stephen Yonker of Palmer, Alaska, and Paul Yonker of Divernon. He was preceded in death by his parents; son: Michael Gene Yonker; granddaughter: Lisa Marie Yonker; and sister: Amanda Vedas.

Gene will be cremated, and a private family graveside service will be held Tuesday at Oak Hill Cemetery in Taylorville with Rev. Gerald McPhillips officiating.  Memorials may be made to the Christian County Animal Control.  McClure Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.  Memories of Gene, or condolences to his family, may be left online at www.mcclurefuneralhome.com.