Obituary of E. Eugene Robinson

E. Eugene Robinson, 82, of Niles, passed away at Riveridge Manor in Niles. Gene was born on February 9, 1935, to the late Ernest and Doris (Cudd) Robinson in Nettleton, Arkansas. After graduating from high school Gene was drafted into the United States Air Force. After his induction, He spent the next two years doing something that he loved - playing baseball. He toured the country playing ball and practicing with the major league. After his discharge, Gene went on to work for Kawneer for over 25 years. On September 15, 1962, Gene wed Ruthann Smith at a ceremony in Niles. After Kawneer left the area Gene opened Gene's Colonial Bar in the old Colonial Barbershop on Wayne Street in Niles. He loved owning and operating the bar, it was only second to his love for golf. He eventually sold the bar after 20 years to take a break and play golf. This didn't last long as shortly after he opened Scotty's Bar and later Gene's Party Pantry in Dayton Lake. After he sold the party store and the bar he eventually retired for good. Gene was always a happy-go-lucky guy. He played golf as often as he could and loved meeting new people. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest and Doris Robinson; brother, Orville Robinson; and sister, Dorothy Haselton. Gene is survived by Ruthann Robinson of Niles; son, Scott Robinson of Niles; grandson, Maxwell Robinson; great-grandchildren Aubree and Zachary; siblings, Bill Robinson of Winter Haven, Florida, Larry (Kay) Robinson of Maumelle, Arkansas, and Wilma (Patrick) Long of Walkerton, Indiana; and sister-in-law, Pamela Robinson of Bremen. Gene's family will be holding a graveside service in the spring at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens in Niles.