Gene David Sanks

Gene David Sanks, 73, of Equality, Illinois, died September 12, 2021, in Deaconess Hospital, Evansville, Indiana.  He was born September 1, 1948, in Goshen, Indiana, to David Rees Sanks II and Mildred Irene Wheaton Sanks.  Gene had one brother, David Rees Sanks III, who preceded him in death. Gene spent his early years in Equality, Illinois. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1971 with a Master’s Degree in Ornamental Horticulture. In the early 1970’s he ran Sanks Greenhouse in Eldorado, Illinois.  He then moved to Richmond, Virginia where he was Superintendent of the James River Park.  In 1978 he moved to Urbana, Illinois where he was the Superintendent of Operations for the Urbana Park District.  In 1986 he moved back to Southern Illinois and lived in Ridgway and then on the Sanks Family Farm.  He farmed from 1987 until the present.  Gene loved being with people, could tell a good story, and he was loved by many.  Gene was an avid fisherman and an active member of the Equality Masonic Lodge for over 50 years. Gene is survived by Judy Keasler, his cousin Van (Anice) Sanks and family, and several relatives. Due to Covid 19, there will be a private service. Masks and social distancing will be required.  In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Equality Food Pantry, Shawneetown Food Pantry, Gallatin County Golden Circle, or the Equality Masonic Lodge. Condolences and expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family via the website www.vickeryfuneralchapel.com