Robert "Gene" Tinney

Robert Eugene “Gene” Tinney of Bourbonnais, passed away Monday, January 6, 2025 at Riverside Medical Center. He was born October 14, 1937 in South Chicago Heights, IL, the son of Robert D and Mary Tinney. Gene married the love of his life, Judith A Lain on November 4, 1961. They were married over 63 years. Gene served in the Army National Guard, and was a member of Maternity BVM Church. Gene’s career included teaching at KCC where he started the Machine Tool Certification Program and ultimately was a business owner for over 34 years of ET Machine Tool Inc., Bradley. He started sharpening tools out of his one car garage at night and a few years later found a niche that created a business that would soon be his life long career. His passion for machining combined with his business smarts made for a successful combination. He was a devoted father and husband, always putting his family’s needs before his own. His love for them was unwavering, a constant source of strength and warmth in their lives. Second only to his family was his love of his 1934 Ford. He was a member of the NHRA, NSRA as well as many other car clubs along the way. One of his greatest past times was working on his car and attending numerous car shows to highlight all his hard work. He loved the comradery of all his close car buddies as well as the Saturday morning “table of knowledge” gathering. One trip he and Judy would take on a yearly basis was attending the speed time trials at Bonneville Salt Flats, Utah. He is survived by his wife, Judith, Bourbonnais; three daughters, Lisa McKnight (Ross) of Bourbonnais, Gina Bernhardt (Steve) of Sanford, FL, and Julie Hebert (Curt) of Oviedo,FL.; six grandchildren, Zachary Whitwell, Bailey Whitwell, Max Bernhardt, Rachel Hebert, Leah Hebert, and Evan Hebert. Preceding him in death were his parents and a sister Patricia Oliver. Visitation will be held 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, January 14, 2025 at Clancy-Gernon Funeral Home in Bourbonnais. Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 15, 2025, also at the funeral home. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery in Bourbonnais. Memorials may be made to the family wishes.

Robert "Gene" Tinney

October 14, 1937 - January 6, 2025