Longtime Elgin area couple continue their community service

From his very first days in the baby nursery at Sherman Hospital to a comfortable condo at The Greens, Gene Lamp and his wife, Mary, are shining examples of devoted community service.

After attending Carleton College, Gene joined the family business: Lamp Construction. Now in its fourth generation, Lamp Construction has managed many local projects including remodeling Sherman Hospital (where Gene was born!), building Dundee Library and work at Elgin Community College's new campus off McLean Boulevard.

In addition to helping physically build the Elgin area, Gene and Mary raised four children and mentored countless others through programs like Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts. Gene also served as PTO President.

Not to be outdone by her husband, Mary Lamp, a lifetime Girl Scout, was also a tireless volunteer for Summit School, Dundee Township Historical Society, the Dundee Women's club and served on the board that organized and ran the operations of Habitat for Humanity of northern Fox Valley when it began.

The Lamps have continued serving the community during retirement. Gene was president of the Dundee Rotary, treasurer of the Dundee Historical Society and entertained many during the Dundee Historical cemetery walks, even dyeing his hair to black and growing a beard to become Abraham Lincoln for the opening day program three years ago!

Today, Gene and Mary are still involved in the greater community. Gene is the secretary on the Board of Directors at The Greens of Elgin, and Mary has volunteered to organize the retirement community's library (no small undertaking!).