Geneva Flag Lowered After Death Of Gen Hoe Owner's Daughter

GENEVA, IL — Geneva's flag outside City Hall is lowered to half-staff Monday to honor and remember Geneva resident Philana Lee, who died May 17. She was 53.

Philana, the daughter of Gen Hoe owner Jenny Lee, spent "much of her time" on the weekends helping her mom run the restaurant, city officials said. Gen Hoe, located at 537 E. State St., is the longest, continuously operating restaurant in Geneva.

With a career in marketing, Philana spent 29 years working in international marketing at AGCO Corporation in Batavia, according to her obituary.

"She was a world traveler, lover of all fine foods, wine and art, and Chicago sports," reads her obituary. "She enjoyed spending time outdoors taking walks, riding her bike, and visiting new places. She most loved spending time with dear family and friends."

A memorial service and funeral were held for Philana over the weekend in Geneva. In lieu of flowers, the family said memorials can be sent to the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, 215 W. Illinois Street in Chicago, or to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Donor Services, PO Box 22324, New York, NY 10087.

"The City of Geneva expresses its condolences to the Lee family and friends on their loss," said city officials, who also lowered the flag when Philana's brother, Peter Lee, died Jan. 27.