Gene R. Coldwater

Gene R. Coldwater of Joliet, age 74, passed away with his loving family by his side on February 1, 2025 at Lightways Hospice Center in Joliet, IL. He was born to his parents Donald Coldwater and Bessie Coldwater (nee Kocarek) in Joliet, IL on June 7, 1950.

Gene was strongly rooted in Elwood, IL in his youth as the Coldwater family owned and operated a number of agricultural properties in the area. He graduated from Joliet East High School and eventually went on to spend the bulk of his career as a valued employee of the Plainfield Park District for twenty-five years before retiring from his post as Superintendent. Gene was a longtime member of the Meneoka New Lenox Sportsman’s Club, and he loved spending his time at the club or really anywhere outdoors. Even spending time just sitting on his deck would provide him peace and solace in natural surroundings. He also loved to travel. Whether it was one of the many trips that he and Debra enjoyed in Mexico, attending Comic Con, or just getting the motorcycle out for a long ride, Gene enjoyed collecting new experiences in unfamiliar territories. He was a very attentive father to his two children, always doing his best to make time to engage in their activities and support them with their needs. He relished his role as a grandfather and spent as much time as he was able with his grandkids. He was so proud to be known as “PA”. While the meaning of that nickname may not be clear to all, the importance of it to Gene could never be overstated. 

He was preceded in death by his parents Donald and Bessie, his brother Donald E. Coldwater, and his beloved pet Finn.

Gene is survived by his loving wife of forty-six years, Debra Coldwater (nee Salman); his children Adrienne (Billy Glover) Page and Mathew (Kailey) Coldwater; his grandchildren Lonnie, Brooklyn, Eleanor, and baby J.A.C.; his sister Carol (the late Dennis) Beallis, as well as his beloved pets Jack and Ozzie.

 A Celebration of Life Visitation will be held on Monday February 10, 2025 from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm with a Chapel Service scheduled at 1:30 pm at Tezak’s Home to Celebrate Life, 1211 Plainfield Rd. Joliet, IL 60435. Immediately following the close of the visitation, guests will be invited to attend a Chapel Committal Service at Woodlawn Memorial Park, 23060 W. Jefferson St. Joliet, IL 60431 before Gene’s Interment.