Gene Ann (Rowe) Cervantes

Gene Ann Rowe Cervantes, 75, of Moline, passed away on February 14, 2025, at her home.

A gathering for family and friends will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday February 20, 2025, at Riverfront Grille, 4619 34th Street, Rock Island. Cremation rites have been accorded. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made for an educational fund for Gene's grandchildren. Esterdahl Mortuary & Crematory, Ltd., Moline, is assisting the family.

Gene Ann was born on December 16, 1949, in Evergreen Park, Il, the daughter of Louis and Ann Rowe. She graduated from Alleman High School in 1967. Gene earned a B.A. degree in Elementary Education from Illinois State University and an M.A. degree in Education from Western Illinois University. Gene Ann taught elementary education in the East Moline schools for 35 years. She was the “favorite teacher” for numerous former students. One of them recently remarked to her brothers “I was a troubled kid. She changed my life for the better.”

She was active in professional activities, serving as President of the East Moline Education Association, and being honored by the Argus-Dispatch as an “Outstanding Teacher.”

Gene Ann was a loving, caring individual. She will be greatly missed by the many people who loved her.

Survivors include her husband, Salvador Cervantes; daughter, Anna Cervantes; step-sons, James and David; grandchildren, Bryson and Kaiyah; siblings, Gary Rowe, Rock Island, Marcy Johnson, East Moline, Mike Rowe, Elmhurst, IL, Dan Rowe, Port Byron; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents and brother, Richard Rowe.

Memories may be shared online by visiting esterdahl.com.