Leo Gene Fore

Gene was born in Jeiseyville, IL on August 2, 1940 to Leo and Vivian Fore. In 1966, he married Jane Grebenc of Chisholm, MN. He soon became father to Jennifer and Sarah.

He graduated from Feitshans High School in 1958, after which he served in the United States Navy from 1958 to 1961 aboard the USS Cavalier and USS Bayfield. He attended Southern Minnesota University in Mankato, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Social Studies in 1967; later he attended UIS and earned his master’s in Political Studies in 1986. He proudly taught history at Riverton High School for 27 years, retiring in 1995 when his first grandchild was born. He was a founding member of local country music sensations, Gene Fore & the Foreman, and White Lightning. He played throughout his adult life, only hanging up the mic in 2020 when the pandemic and the beginnings of his illness made gigs less enjoyable.

He is preceded in death by his father.

Gene is survived by his wife, Jane, and their dog, Missy; his mother, Vivian Fore; two daughters, Jennifer (Rhett) Rossi and Sarah (Jamy) Schlafke; two grandchildren, Taylor and Kobe Rossi; a niece; and several nephews.

He will be remembered as a loving son, husband, father, and grandfather, lifelong learner and educator, lover of the outdoors, motorcycle and biking enthusiast, the cool teacher, and a man who only slowed down at the very last.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Animal Protective League, WILD Canine Rescue, or the Illinois Raptor Center.

Cremation was provided by Butler Cremation Tribute Center.

The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home-Springfield, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield, IL.