The Honorable Eugene "Gene" A. Wojcik, Jr., age 78, of Naperville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 25, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of service, generosity, and unmistakable joy. A revered member of the DuPage County legal community, Gene devoted his life to the pursuit of justice and to lifting others up with compassion—and often with his well‑timed wit.

Gene grew up in Downers Grove and attended St. Procopius Academy (now Benet Academy). He graduated from Illinois Benedictine College and earned his law degree from DePaul University College of Law. Admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1972, he dedicated his entire career to public service. He joined the DuPage County Public Defender's Office in 1975 and became the Public Defender in January 1989. He later served with distinction as a DuPage County Associate District Judge for 15 years, where his fairness, humor, and strong moral compass were hallmarks of his work.

During these years, Gene was an active participant in the DuPage County Bar Association Annual Judges' Nite production.  The event offered members of the legal community a chance to poke fun at themselves and each other, all in the spirit of camaraderie and good humor.  As the group liked to say, it was "although not always in good taste, always performed with a reckless disregard for the truth."

For nearly 55 years, Gene shared a remarkable life with his beloved wife, Sandra (née Plosnich). Together, they built a marriage full of laughter, partnership, and adventure. Gene was the loving father of Charlie (Andi) Wojcik and Lauren (Bill) Kelly, and the proud grandfather of William and Emily Kelly. He was the dear brother‑in‑law of Maureen (the late Robert) Godek, fond uncle of Lyndsay (Joe) Stuckey, and great‑uncle of Cole Stuckey.

Gene and Sandy shared a deep love of travel, exploring the world together one destination at a time. They enjoyed numerous cruises and memorable adventures that took them to Australia, the South Pacific Islands, Easter Island, French Polynesia, and the beautiful island of Bonaire—just to name a few. Gene especially loved snorkeling, marveling at the underwater world with the same sense of wonder he brought to life above the surface. Their journeys together were among his most cherished experiences.

Gene's quick wit, sense of humor, and gift for storytelling were legendary.   Whether recounting a courtroom moment, a fishing adventure, or a tailgate escapade, he had a way of drawing people in and leaving them laughing.

His adventurous spirit extended throughout his life. Gene loved fishing, boating, and poker games with his friends. He was a proud longtime Chicago Bears season ticket holder for over 25 years and relished the camaraderie of tailgating as much as the game itself. Gene's fishing trips were legendary, including his annual fishing trip to Canada for over 35 years as well as his annual trips to Hayward, WI and Bemidji, MN. He also found joy in live music and the simple pleasure of a good book and a fine cigar.

Above all, Gene will be remembered for the warmth he brought into every room, the laughter he shared so generously, and the joyful spirit that defined him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, February 21st.  Friends and family are welcome to join in sharing favorite stories and memories from 11am-3pm at Cress Creek Country Club located at 1215 Royal Saint George Drive in Naperville, Illinois.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Gene's memory to the DuPage Legal Aid. (www.dupagelegalaid.org)

Inurnment will be private at Saints Peter & Paul Cemetery in Naperville.  Arrangements entrusted to the Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko, funeral director.  Info at 708-F-U-N-E-R-A-L