Gene L. Pillarelli, 88 years, a lifelong resident of Monroe, MI passed away on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at Medilodge of Monroe.

   Born October 27, 1922 in Monroe, MI, Gene was the son of the late Nicholas and Vittoria (Julian) Pillarelli. Gene was a graduate of St. Joseph Elementary School and attended Monroe High School.

   Gene served our country honorably and proudly as a Sergeant in the US Army during WWII from December 21, 1942 until October 1, 1945. He served overseas in Normandy, Northern France, the Rhineland and Central Europe. For his meritorious service he was awarded; a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, European African Middle Eastern Service Medal with 4 Bronze Stars and 1 Bronze Arrowhead, and the Good Conduct Medal.

   On December 4, 1948, Gene married his beloved wife the former Margaret A. Gedelian in Walbridge, OH.

   Gene worked at Ford Motor company in Monroe from which her retired after 30 years of service to the company.

   Gene was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where he was baptized and confirmed, and the VFW Post 1138. Gene enjoyed gardening, working in the yard and around the house, and playing cards. Nothing brought Gene more joy than being with his family.

   Gene is survived by his beloved wife of 62 years Margaret, 2 loving daughters; Vicki J. Gabriel of Ann Arbor, MI and Penny J. (Jerry) Pierce of Monroe, 3 cherished grandsons; Andrew, Taylor and Brady Pierce, and 2 brothers; Alfred (Dorothy) Pillarelli and John (Margaret) Pillarelli.

   In addition to his parents Gene was preceded in death by 2 sisters; Julia Dorazio and Lina Camilli and 3 brothers; Dominic, Nick and Anthony Pillarelli.

   Visitation will be held on Friday from 1-8 PM in the Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd., in Monroe where a scripture service will be held at 5:00 PM. On Saturday, April 2, 2011 he will lie in state at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Monroe from 10:00 AM until Mass of the Resurrection celebrating his life at 11:00 AM. Fr. William Fisher will officiate. Entombment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery where the VFW Post 1138 will conduct military honors.

   Memorials are suggested to Mercy Memorial Hospice of Monroe.