Gene Raymond Hellige

Gene Raymond Hellige, 74, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away on March 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Funeral services and Mass of Christian Burial for Gene will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Monday, March 23, 2026, at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, Davenport. Visitation will be from 10:00 a.m. until the start of Mass. Burial will be in Davenport Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Café on Vine.

He was born on August 17, 1951, in Fort Madison, Iowa. Gene was the oldest of nine children, growing up with his many brothers and sister in a close-knit family that shaped his deep sense of loyalty and care for others.

He married the love of his life, Loren, and together they built a life centered on faith, family, and unwavering devotion. Gene was completely in awe of Loren, an artist whose creativity and spirit he deeply admired.

He dedicated his career as a civil engineer with the City of Davenport, where he took great pride in designing streets, bridges, and sewers, helping build and support the community he loved.

Gene was also one of the founders of the Mississippi Valley Blues Society and served as its president for several years, reflecting his love of music and connection to the community.

Above all, Gene was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Loren; his son, Ian Shaw (Ashley), and their daughters, Genevieve and Gwendolen; and his daughter, Helayna Roche (John Roche), and their children, Jack, Elsie, and Rhodes.

Gene found joy in the simple and meaningful things in life. He loved the outdoors, building fires, woodworking, mowing the lawn, and making trips to Menards. His happiest moments, however, were spent with his grandchildren. Whether building Legos, drawing, or doing anything they dreamed up, he met them with a huge smile and a full heart. He would drop anything to be with them.

He will be remembered as genuinely curious, gentle, honest, kind, loyal, and endlessly patient. Gene had a remarkable way of always seeing the good in others and approached life with a positivity that touched everyone who knew him.

His love for his family, his faith, and his steady, comforting presence will be deeply missed and forever cherished.