Claude “Gene” Grandfield

Claude “Gene” Grandfield, age 78, of Blue Mound, died peacefully at home on December 25, 2024. Gene was born on June 5, 1946, in Vandalia, IL, the eldest son of Claude and Sarah Grandfield.

Gene was known for his love of racing and his not-so-funny dad jokes. He loved his dog, Tiny, and she would be sitting with him in his favorite chair. Gene enjoyed watching his favorite shows on television and painting. He preferred painting birdhouses over anything else, yet Christmas ornaments were a close second.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Mary. And his five children, Patricia Duarte (Tacho), Leslie Martin, Wendy Grandfield, Claude “Little Gene” Grandfield II (Christine), and Tracy Major (Scott). He had ten grandchildren: John Riggs, Jeff Riggs, Jacob Riggs, Tre’ Schoen, Tiara Schoen, Alexis Tish, Dakota Grandfield, Cheyene Grandfield, Paytyn Grandfield, and Rachel Major, as well as the bonus grandchildren: Keegan, Kamrun, Zach, Darian and
Calex. Gene has ten great-grandchildren. Gene is also survived by his brothers, Joe and Jim, and sister, Nancy. His parents preceded him in death.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at the Blue Mound Civic Center on Sunday, March 30, 2025, from 1 to 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association, The American Thyroid Association, or the American Diabetes Association.

Gene will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his spirit will continue to live in the hearts of all the people he touched.