Myron E. “Gene” Jebsen, 82, of LeClaire, Iowa, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 31, 2026, following an extended illness. Surrounded by the love of his family and the memories of a life well lived, Gene left behind a legacy of music, devotion, friendship, and kindness that will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

     A celebration of Gene’s life is being planned and will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be made to the family. McGinnis-Chambers Funeral Home of Bettendorf is assisting with arrangements.

     Gene was born on June 4, 1943, in Hartley, Iowa, to Eldred and Lucille (Rumbolz) Jebsen. From an early age, he possessed a quiet determination and an extraordinary love of music. What began as a young boy teaching himself to play the French horn soon blossomed into a lifelong passion. His remarkable talent was recognized early when he was invited to perform with Karl King’s Band in Fort Dodge during his high school years, an experience that helped shape the musician and educator he would become.

     After graduating from high school, Gene proudly answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. Music remained a central part of his life, and he was honored to become a member of the prestigious Strategic Air Command Band at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska. Following four years of service, he was honorably discharged in 1966.

     Gene’s love of music and learning led him to Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, where he earned his degree in Elementary Music Education in 1970. During this chapter of his life, he met the woman who would become his greatest companion and the love of his life, Vicki Dittmer. They were united in marriage on June 7, 1969, in Pleasant Valley, Iowa, beginning a partnership filled with love, laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion that would span nearly 57 years.

     For more than three decades, Gene shared his gift of music with countless children as an elementary choral music teacher, primarily at Blue Grass Elementary School and within the Davenport school system. To many students, he was far more than a teacher; he was an encourager, a mentor, and the person who introduced them to the joy and confidence that music can bring. His passion for music extended beyond the classroom as he served for many years as Choir Director at Trinity Lutheran Church in Pleasant Valley, where his leadership and love of worship enriched the lives of many.

     While music was a defining part of Gene’s life, some of his happiest moments were spent alongside Vicki at Sisko’s Pine Point Resort on Wisconsin’s beautiful Chippewa Flowage near Hayward. What began as summer vacations became a cherished way of life. As resort hosts for 7 years of the 48 years they spent there, Gene and Vicki welcomed guests who soon became lifelong friends and an extended family. Whether sharing stories, helping visitors feel at home, enjoying the beauty of the Northwoods, or casting a line into the water, Gene found great joy in the simple pleasures of life.

     An avid fisherman and hunter, Gene loved the outdoors and treasured every season spent in Wisconsin. The memories he and Vicki created there—with family, friends, and generations of resort guests—became some of the most meaningful chapters of their lives.

     Above all else, Gene was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, faithful friend, and gentle soul. His warm smile, steady presence, sense of humor, and genuine interest in others made people feel welcome and valued. He lived a life rooted in service, family, faith, and music, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations.

     Those left to cherish his memory include his beloved wife, Vicki; his daughter, Julie (Jerry) Spurgeon of Canton, Missouri; his son, Jayson (Vanessa) Jebsen of Lebanon Township, New Jersey; and his treasured grandchildren, Aidan Spurgeon, Adelynn Spurgeon, Emeline Jebsen, Anelie Jebsen, Graysen Jebsen, and Amelia Jebsen. He is also lovingly remembered by extended family members, countless friends, former students, fellow musicians, and all whose lives were enriched by knowing him.

     Gene was preceded in death by his parents and his sisters, Donna Ruggles and DeEtta Mehl.

     Though the music has quieted, the melody of Gene’s life continues in the hearts of those who loved him. His kindness, his faith, his love for family, and the joy he brought to others will never be forgotten.