Obituary: Eugene "Gene" Norstad Garrett, 51, of Elmhurst

Eugene "Gene" Norstad Garrett, 51, of Elmhurst, died at Loyola University Hospital July 31 following an extended illness.

He is survived by his mother, Mary Ann Norstad Garrett, and four siblings, Robert E. Garrett (Jill Dinoffria Garrett), Chrisanne N. Garrett, Stephen N. Garrett (Cher Jablonski Garrett) and Suzanne N. Wheatland (Jon Wheatland). Uncle Geno was adored by two generations of nieces and nephews, including William R. Garrett (Laura Mertes), Thomas E. Garrett (Deborah King), Joel Garrett, Jessica Garrett, Evan Garrett, Alexandra Wheatland, Francis Wheatland, Rylie Rae Garrett, Thomas Garrett and Lucas Garrett.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved father, Eugene A. Garrett (1920 - 96). Gene continued to extend his family by connecting with and befriending cousins Ken, Glenn, Jodi, Kenny, Sara and Cole on Facebook.

Gene was an inspiration to his family and friends. He maintained his cheerful spirit and unwavering hope during a very difficult and extended illness. While facing his own physical challenges, he continued to be a true friend, confidante, and advisor to many. His upbeat demeanor and eternal optimism made his passing painfully shocking and unbelievable to so many who shared his dream and belief in a cure. Sadly, his body failed him way before his spirit and before he received the gift of a donor liver that might have prolonged his precious life.

A steadfast and loyal friend, Geno enjoyed long-term relationships with friends and associates from school (he was a member of York Community High School's Class of 1979) and work in the airline industry, most recently with Swissport USA. He was the single most loyal fan ever of the Chicago Cubs and Blackhawks. He loved cars—all kinds. He was a favorite among his neighbors on Pick Avenue.

But mostly, he loved all things related to drums and drumming. Geno was a member of the world renowned snare drum line for the Madison Scouts Drum and Bugle Corps (1981-83). He marched in the alumni corps in 2006 and maintained his friendships with fellow corpsmen until his passing. Prior to joining the Madison Scouts, Gene marched with the Schaumburg Guardsmen (1977-81) and the Elmhurst Vaqueros (1974-77).

Nothing would make Gene happier than to know you have chosen to be an organ donor. If you'd care to go one step farther, please consider a donation to Gift of Hope.

Please join family and friends of Gene Garrett from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 25, at the Normandy Banquet Room, Elmhurst American Legion Hall, 310 W. Butterfield Road (at Spring) for a celebration of his life. Bring your memories, friends, pictures and instruments.