Eugene H "Squirt" Diedrick

Eugene H. “Squirt” Diedrick, age 92, of Genoa IL, formerly of Hampshire IL passed away on March 26, 2026, surrounded by his family. Squirt, as he was known by most, was born August 4, 1933 to Clarence and Alma (Sandmann) in Marengo. As a boy he attended the schools in rural Hampshire & frequently told stories of walking with his brothers to schools on Big Timber & Walker roads. He graduated from Hampshire High School in 1952 and served in the US Army, stationed in Alabama. Squirt married his high-school sweetheart, Elaine Conro, on February 4, 1958 at St. Charles Borromeo Church. They settled in Hampshire where they raised their children. To support his family, he worked a variety of jobs: most times having both full and part time jobs. Squirt was a hard worker and gave value to an honest day’s work--a trait he instilled in each of his children. He partnered for a short time with his father and brother, Robert, on the Green Top Dairy Farm in Genoa, before finding employment at Hampshire Feed Mill and later Petersen Propane. For over 30 years, he provided propane for Petersen’s residential and commercial customers throughout Hampshire, Marengo and Huntley. But, when you ask him what he did for a living, Squirt proudly would say “ I’m a farmer”. With his son, Kirk, as his business partner, they farmed hay, soybeans and corn while maintaining a dairy of 100 Holsteins. While dairying, farming and his regular job didn’t allow for days off, Squirt was able to take a few trips to Arlington Park Racetrack, Las Vegas, Wrigley field to watch the Cubs, and many area casinos to try his luck at the slots. After retiring he was able to attend Spring Training in AZ, which he thoroughly enjoyed. He loved watching his children, grandchildren and later great grandchildren at their school functions, sporting events and dance recitals. Squirt enjoyed the simple things in life; drives with his wife to check out the crops, watching baseball and basketball while placing bets with his sons. March Madness was a favorite for Squirt. He loved cooking on his grill while sipping on a vodka martini. Holidays were his favorite; dyeing his own Easter eggs, grazing the appetizer table and the sampling all of the dessert offerings. Squirt was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, Robert and Raymond, and sister-in-law Norma. Squirt is survived by his wife of 68 years, Elaine, their children; Timothy (Kathy), Kirk (Sharon), Angela (Rex) Young and Jason, grandchildren; Megan (Robert) Chavira, Abby Tucker, Garret (Jamie) Jones, Chelsea Grandt, Alyssa Jones and Andrew Young, and great grandchildren; Fenix and Kalina Chavira, Audriana and Amari Tucker and Logan Grandt. A private family service was held at Frederick Funeral home in Hampshire. Following his wishes, interment will be delayed until he can be united with his loving wife in their final resting place. His hands may rest, but the fields he tended—and the lives he touched—will continue to grow in his memory.

Eugene H "Squirt" Diedrick

August 4, 1933 - March 26, 2026