Gene Gessert

Eugene John Gessert (Gene), born August 6, 1934 known for his big heart and infectious smile passed away on October 3, 2015 in Houston Texas. He was born and raised in Portsmouth, Iowa and married Rita Mechura on July 21, 1956. They moved to Cape Girardeau, MO in 1963 where Gene worked as a Police officer. He was later promoted to Sargent and was also part of the canine division. They later moved to Springfield, IL where he drove for 25 years and retired from ABF Freight Systems. In 1995 his leadership skills and 3 million mile safe driving record earned his place on a select 12 man ABF Road Team. He traveled the country as a spokesman for the trucking industry. In 2013, Gene and Rita later moved to Houston, TX to be closer to daughters and family.

He is survived by his loving wife, Rita, of 59 years, sons Robert (Lise) and Kelly (Ann) and daughters Lori Meador (Mark) and Stacey Downs (Daryl), eight grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.

Gene will be greatly missed by family and all who knew him and revered for setting the high standard to which we all aspire.

A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church in Houston, TX October 8, 2015 at 10:00 AM.