Eugene (Gene) W. Krebs passed away January 10, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born March 26, 1948, in St. Louis MO, Gene was the son of Joseph Martin Krebs, and Mary Catherine (St. John) Krebs (Flynn). He was raised in St. Louis, graduated from St. Louis University High School, and attended Quincy College as a psychology major.
For decades, Gene was a professional photographer’s photographer. He never just took pictures; his photos caught live moments of love, surprise, laughter, and skill. From the darkroom through digital AI, he was an independent learner and always shared technique with newcomers. He was granted the prestigious One Show Award for his artistry in advertising. He thought it a great responsibility and privilege to capture the key moments in people’s lives, which he did for countless companies, families, schools, associates and friends.
Gene, known for his generosity in helping others, was a gifted mentor, an insatiable learner, and a methodical problem solver. In addition to the optics, chemistry, and physics he mastered to excel in his medium, he taught himself dozens of other subjects, including construction, computer technology and design. He mentored a myriad of creative minds, often supplying the exact tool and guidance as a personal gift. As a final act, honoring the importance of advancing knowledge, he offered his body to Washington University School of Medicine.
Gene is survived by his loving wife Judy Gawne Varias; her children, Christopher Varias of Newport KY and Dre (Julie) Purpura of Chicago IL; their grandchildren, Madoline (Maddie) Varias, Martin (Marty) Varias, and Sebastian Purpura; his siblings, Mary Ellen Kramer of Cincinnati OH, Francis Krebs of St. Louis, Robert Krebs of Gaithersburg MD, Margaret Edelman of Garden City NY, Elizabeth Kamler of O’Fallon MO, Susan Krebs-Smith of Gaithersburg, and Catherine Krebs of Brooklyn NY. He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Joseph M. Krebs Jr. of Rockville MD.
Gene was a devoted spouse, loyal brother, trusted confidant, an uncle of counsel, a teacher whose patience was felt, not stated, and a supportive friend in your most difficult challenge: “we shall not look upon his like again.”
Services: A private service will be held close to the time of his birthday in St. Louis. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (Pancan.org) or Hospice Foundation of America.
Frank,
Sheri and I are very sorry for your loss. 🙏🙏🙏
Dear Judy, Reading this loving tribute and learning about Gene, it’s clear you married your soulmate. I am very sorry for your loss and pray the blessing of your memories together will bring you endless comfort. Love, Sue
Judy I’m so sorry to hear about Gene. Sending you love and hugs during this difficult time. Miss you very much.
So sorry for the fami.y. Memories of Gene are to be treasured.
Gene was a good friend of mine at SLUH. He was a gifted photographer even then. My family sends our condolences to all of Gene’s family.
Please accept our most sincere condolences and may he rest in peace.
Wally & Karen Ambrose
Judy, thinking of you and all who loved Gene. It was an honor to have gotten to meet him and have the two of you to our home. Keeping you in my prayers and giving thanks for Gene’s beautiful life.
Love,
Johnny Zokovitch
St. Cronan Catholic Church
First of all sorry for your loss! I do remember your brother Gene from grade school!
Judy, thinking of you and Gene, and the love and caring you shared, and shared with all your others.
As cousins, we knew of Gene’s warm personality. He was gifted in photography. As kids we visited Uncle Joe and Aunt Marywho welcomed us as the St. John family.
Oh, what a wonderful friend! I used to give him a ride home from SLUH, some of my happiest memories!
Judy,
I am so sorry to hear this news. As a fellow classmate of Gene and you it is especially sentimental, in that I am remembering all the wonderful years we shared at Quincy College. Gene was never without a smile, as you were in your marriage. We are saddened by this news, and will certainly keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Best to you always.
Emmett and Mary Jo Murphy
Robert Griesbaum MD
I was lucky to get to know Gene just hanging out with brother Rob and the whole remarkable family in high school days. Lucky to touch base with Gene off and on through the years. Genuinely good man.
Frank,
I just saw the obituary for your brother, Gene.
I certainly remember him from years ago.
Just wanted to send my personal sympathy and prayerful support.
Norb Ernst
Sorry for your loss, dear Mrs. Krebs, Family and friends.
Gene was special!
Dear Judy,
Your married a wonderful man who spoke from his heart. As I have shared with you, Gene’s compassion and sensitivity were extraordinary.
We all hope to grow old with our mates, and I know that he will continue to be by your side. Love to you during this sad time.