Gene Crook

Gene Morris Crook, age 84 of Montello passed away peacefully Saturday, December 21, 2024 at his home. Gene was born in Columbus on February 3, 1940 to Morris and Arlene (Lienke) Crook. He graduated from Columbus High School in 1959. Gene proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy; during his time in service, he traveled to 39 countries as part of the John F. Kennedy Good Will Tour. He was united in marriage to Sharon Amrhein on August 22, 1959 and the two were inseparable for 63 years; Sharon preceded Gene in death on August 9, 2022.

Gene began his career as a union carpenter and retired after many years as a construction supervisor. He loved to fish and was an avid woodworker. Gene was a long-time member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church and gave back by donating many woodworking projects to the Lutheran School. He loved his family and will be remembered for his generosity and great sense of humor.

Gene is survived by three children: Jerome (Glenda) of Columbus, Marilyn Mead of Platteville and John (Darcy) of Fitchburg as well as many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He is also survived by daughter-in-law, Coleen Crook, sister, Jane Marvin, step-sister, Patricia Thole and other extended family members. 

Gene is preceded in death by his parents, wife, son, James and brothers-in-law: George Marvin and Walter Thole.

A memorial service for Gene Crook will be held on Friday, January 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Emmanuel (Big Mecan) Lutheran Church. Visitation will be held from 9:30 AM until 10:45 AM. Pastor Pete Zietlow will preside and inurnment with full military honors by the Navy (American Legion Post #351) of Montello will follow the service in the parish cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations are preferred to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, W5161 Evergreen Lane, Montello, WI 53949. 

Crawford Funeral and Cremation Service of Montello and Oxford is honored to be serving the family. www.CrawfordFH.com