Ishpeming- Eugene H. “Gene” Bilkey

Born on July 23, 1932, in Ishpeming, son of the late Harvey and Johanna (DeGabriele) Bilkey. Died peacefully at home on March 31, 2026.

He was a graduate of Ishpeming High School class of 1950 and Michigan Technological University in 1962, receiving a B.S. in civil engineering.

In the late 50’s and early 60’s, Gene worked in Aurora, IL as a design draftsman for the Stephens-Adamson Manufacturing Company. In 1964, he joined the Cleveland-Cliffs Iron Company in Ishpeming and was assigned to the project engineering department. Over the years, Gene had numerous engineering and administrative roles associated with the design and construction of the Pioneer Pellet Plant, the three expansions to the Empire mine, and the construction and expansion of the Tilden mine, the Republic mine, the Humboldt mine, and Units 7, 8 and 9 at the Presque Isle Power Plant. He retired from Cliffs in 1987 as Chief Engineer.

In 1988 Gene worked as a construction manager for the Newmont Mining Company, expanding Newmont’s gold mining operations in Carlin, NV. From 1991 to 1997 he served as project coordinator for Cleveland-Cliffs, Georgia-Pacific, and the Dow Chemical Company, contributing to remediation efforts at the former Cliffs-Dow property in Marquette.

Gene was deeply involved in his community. He served for eight years on the Ishpeming High School Board and was also a member of the executive board of directors for Bay Cliff Health Camp. He was a dedicated member of the Ishpeming Elks Lodge #447 for over 70 years, and was honored as “Elk of the Year” in 1973-1974. He served as an officer and trustee for many years and was the building chairman for the lodge that opened on Lake Shore Drive in November 1976.

An avid golfer, Gene was a member of Wawonowin Country Club for more than 50 years. He served on its board of directors and as club president from 2004-2005.

He enjoyed following local high school football and basketball and was a lifelong, devoted fan of the Green Bay Packers. Above all, he found great joy in attending the events and activities of his children and grandchildren.

Gene is survived by his wife, Jean (Besola) whom he married on October 12, 1257, his daughter Susan, son Michael (Renee), daughter-in-law Lori, grandchildren Thomas, Jacob, Joshua, Alex and Kaitlyn, brother David, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son Steven, son-in-law Lee Cobb, and brother Paul.

Private services will be held in May.

Memorials may be directed to the St. Joseph Church in Ishpeming or the Bay Cliff Health Camp in Big Bay.

Eugene’s obituary may also be viewed at bjorkandzhulkie.com where relative and friends may leave a note of remembrance.