Eugene "Gene" St. John

Eugene "Gene" St John passed away peacefully Sunday, December 28th,2025, his niece, primary caregiver and best friend, Christine Fris, by his side. Gene was born May 30th, 1927 to the late Eugene St John and Catherine (Hall) St John in Rensselaer NY. Known to all as "Uncle Gene", he was the singer of silly songs, teller of bad jokes, and collector of knick knacks. His generous, giving, funny, and quirky personality endeared him to all who had the pleasure of meeting him. Gene worked hard all his life. From selling magazines and parking cars as a youngster, to working for the Royal Typewriter Company, and eventually for Norstar Bank (later Bank of America). He believed in living "The Golden Rule" and gave his time in the Albany area serving on the board of Hope House, The Leukemia Society, The American Legion, and was a Past President of the Bank Security Association. He also led the Knickerbocker Marching Band.

He married the love of his life Dorothy "Dot" Dillion in 1950. Their son James (Jim) was their pride and joy. Gene told everyone how his son was the most talented music director for their church. He didn't see himself as much of a singer, but he and Dot were happy to be a part of Jim's choir. Losing Jim in 2012 and then Dot in 2015 devastated Gene, but, his indomitable spirit and deep faith kept him going. Along with Dot and Jim, Gene is predeceased by his parents Eugene and Catherine , as well as his siblings Catherine, Robert, DuWayne, and Arnold. He is survived by his sister Marie Hilliker and many nieces, nephews, great (and great great) nieces and nephews. 

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude and love to Gene's great great nephew, Joseph Fris for all his loving care of his Uncle Gene for many years. They shared many banana splits! Gene was also close to his great nephew Mark McQuade who was a favorite to feed the ducks with. Also to Marie Mesidort for being not only his aide, but his friend as well. The family would also like to extend their gratitude to the angels of Vitas and Vitas IPU for caring for Gene in his final days.  

Funeral Mass and Christian Burial to be held at Our Lady Queen of Heaven in North Lauderdale Tuesday January 6th at 11:00 am. Anyone wishing to remember Gene in a special way may send donations to Vitas Community Connections or St Gregory Catholic Church.