Gene Hackett's Obituary
Gene Hackett, affectionately known as "Mean Gene," age 90, of Charleston, IL, passed away on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center in Mattoon, IL. He was born on January 25, 1935, in Oakland, IL, to Edward F. Hackett and Ione (McGahey) Hackett.
Gene is survived by his four loving children: Jeff (Nancy) Hackett of Dallas, TX, Cheryl (Stan) Hallett of Lerna, IL, Jamie (Stacey) Hackett of Charleston, IL, and Chris Hackett of Charleston, IL; six grandchildren: Caitlin Hackett of Queens, NY, Courtney Pouge of Palm Springs, CA, Kimberly (Sean) Newby of Mattoon, IL, Kelsey (Jeremy) Hoenes of Mattoon, IL, Sean (Tracy) Hackett of Charleston, IL, and Haley (Tessa) Titus of Charleston, IL; seven great-grandchildren and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Ione Hackett, his beloved companion of many years, Vineta Springer of Ashmore, IL, and the mother of his children, Sandra J. (Hervey) Hackett.
Gene was a 1953 graduate of Charleston High School. He dedicated 31 years to the Charleston Fire Department, serving as Battalion Chief leaving a lasting impact on the fire department as well as the community. In addition to his fire service, Gene was the owner of Charleston Fire Protection Sales and Service and served as the Chair of the Environmental Health and Safety Committee at Eastern Illinois University for several years.
Gene was deeply involved in his community and church. He was a long-time member of the East Harrison Street Church of God and an active participant in numerous organizations, including a 43-year membership in the Masonic Lodge. He was also a proud member of the Sons of the American Revolution, the Shriners, ANSAR, the Elks, and the Moose, all in Charleston, IL.
A lifelong enthusiast, Gene had many passions. He was an avid lover of jazz music, a musician, as well as a history and military aficionado. Gene’s love for automobiles, particularly Volkswagens and antique tractors, was well-known, and his enthusiasm for motorcycles and collecting antiques was matched only by his knack for finding a good bargain.
Gene’s legacy is one of service, passion, and generosity. He touched the lives of many through his work, hobbies, and community involvement. He will be remembered for his kindness, sense of humor, and unwavering devotion to his family and friends.
Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. on Friday, March 21, 2025, at Adams Funeral Chapel, 2330 Shawnee Dr., Charleston, IL. Masonic Rites will follow the visitation, and a funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. with Pastor Chris Walters officiating. Burial will follow at Roselawn Cemetery in Charleston, IL.
Memorial donations may be made to Shriners Children's St. Louis, 4400 Clayton Ave., St. Louis, MO 63110.
To view the obituary, send a condolence message, light a candle, or share memories, please visit www.adamsfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements are being handled by Adams Funeral Chapel in Charleston, IL.
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