Eugene Richard Jelinek

Eugene “Gene” Jelinek, age 100, passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2024, 19 days after his 100th birthday. He passed peacefully in his sleep, in his home, surrounded by his daughter, grandchildren, and great-grandson. 

Gene was born on November 9, 1924, to his parents, Richard and Elsie (Lukes) Jelinek. He was married on May 1, 1965, to Polly Madison. He spent a majority of his life in the Austin area, aside from his time in the military during the Korean War, and for a time afterwards working in Greenland helping build Thule Air Base. He and Lyle Sorrenson built and operated the original Echo Lanes bowling alley, and the Crest Amusement and Archery. He and Gene Clennon opened and ran Star Amusement, a pinball and arcade business. He ended his working career at D&R Star (formerly Star Amusement). 

Gene will be remembered as a kind-hearted, quick witted, friendly man who thoroughly enjoyed his family. He was proud of his Bohemian heritage. In fact, he only spoke Bohemian until about age 5 and later in life he would enjoy trying to remember and speak the language. He enjoyed fishing with friends, going on yearly fishing trips to Canada and Mille Lacs Lake with a group of “the guys”. He enjoyed bowling and playing in tournaments. He also enjoyed gardening and was known for his tomatoes. 

Gene is survived by his daughter, Anne Jelinek; his grandchildren, Aaliyah Thurmond and Martrel Thurmond; and great-grandson, Ozias Bale all of Austin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Elsie Jelinek; his wife, Polly Jelinek; and siblings, Betty Loucks and Ted Jelinek.

A graveside service will be held at a later date in Grandview Cemetery, Austin, Minnesota. Worlein-Hoff Funeral Homes are assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.worlein.com.