Gene E Tomky

Gene Edward Tomky, 88, passed peacefully Saturday, March 5, 2016. He was born in Riverdale, Illinois on August 25, 1927, the first son of Edward Herman Tomky and Emma Muller. Gene's paternal grandfather immigrated from Hamburg Germany. Gene was a Navy Veteran of World War II serving on the U.S.S. Wharton. Always active in the Dolton/Riverdale community, Gene co-owned and managed Tri-City Bowling Lanes. He was a lifetime bowler and enjoyed the annual trips to the American Bowling Congress tournaments wherever they were held across the country. Open, eager, and determined to try new adventures, Gene owned and managed the Glenwood Motel and Restaurant in Ganges, Michigan, ventured into the videography and photography business, and enjoyed growing new flowers and food in his garden. He also enjoyed swimming, fishing, boating, traveling, and NASCAR. Gene shared his love with family: five children - the late Kenneth Edward (Janice), Kevin Gene, Karl Jay (Sue), Diane Gail Bowers (James), and Kirt Herman; six grandchildren - Bryan, Bradley, Brett, Karla, Alyssa, and Kelsie; six great grandchildren; and extended family. He was also a husband to Elsie, a partner with Alice Zrante, a brother to Bud, a father-in-law, brother-in-law, uncle, great uncle and a trusted good friend to many. Gene loved his pipe or cigar and of course his signature Christian Brothers brandy. A celebration of his life will be held Saturday, May 21, 2016 at 12:00 noon. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions to the William J. Riley Hospice or to Donate Life America donatelife.net/give-to-dla greatly appreciated.