RACINE – Gene R. Jelinek, 77, passed away at Froedtert Hospital in Wauwatosa on Thursday, July 5, 2018. Gene was born in Racine on October 5, 1940 to LeRoy and Florence (nee, Smogar) Jelinek. He married the former Loreen Markus, celebrating 54 years of marriage. Gene served in the U.S. Army National Guard. He retired from Johnson Wax in 2003. Gene was an avid trap shooter. He loved his children's pets, cooking and the many years he spent camping with Loreen. His pride and joy were his tomato plants. Gene was a weather enthusiast and enjoyed watching the Weather Channel. Survivors include his wife, Loreen Jelinek; children, Jeff (Lori) Jelinek and Lisa Jelinek; grandchildren, Brandon Jelinek and Christopher (Claire) Jelinek; and his sister-in-law, Sue Jelinek. Gene is also survived by other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother, Dale Jelinek. In keeping with Gene's wishes, a private family entombment service will be held. Relatives and friends are invited to meet with the family for a memorial luncheon, at Infusino's Banquet Hall, 3201 Rapids Drive, on Thursday, July 12, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. Casual dress would be appropriate. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation in Gene's memory.