Obituary of Gene Keith Ontjes

Gene Ontjes, devout Christian, husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Thursday, December 4, 2025, leaving behind a legacy defined by faith, service, leadership, and unshakable generosity. Born into an adoptive family in Sioux Falls, SD, Gene’s formative years fostered a life defined by perseverance, and sincere appreciation for each opportunity he received. As an undergraduate at Evangel University, Gene was especially proud to earn his master's degree in counseling and human relations from Villanova University.

Recruited by Chick-Fil-A’s founder Truett Cathy nearly 52 years ago, Gene positioned himself as a key ambassador of the brand.  While serving as an operator at the Granite Run Mall, for its full duration, Gene also went on to serve as a successful multi-unit Chick-fil-A Operator, based in Delaware County, PA. More recently, Gene was honored this year as the 2025 Business Leader of the Year by the Delaware County (PA) Chamber of Commerce and also recognized by the Commonwealth of PA's Legislature.

Outside of his businesses, Gene became a passionate teacher around the world, first through an opportunity to teach free enterprise basics in the USSR.  As he grew in his passion for developing leaders, he partnered closely with the Lifeshape Foundation to teach the SERVE leadership model which took him across the world with notable stops in Peru, the Middle East, and China.

Gene found some of his greatest joys in the simple, beautiful moments of life — collecting sea shells along the shoreline, spending time with his grandchildren, or watching sporting events. A lifelong lover of food and the restaurant industry, Gene appreciated the art of hospitality and the way a good meal could bring together people from different backgrounds.

Gene leaves behind his wife of 45 years, Regina; his sons Brandon (Amanda) and Jason (Rachel); and six grandchildren who they affectionately referred to as “Geno” and will forever miss his warm presence, encouraging words, fist bumps, and memorable hugs.

Grounded in his Christian faith, Gene lived by his favorite verse, “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).  This was a key theme in Gene’s life, as was evidenced by his long-time dedication to his Monday morning men’s group at Brandywine Valley Church.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 16th  from 9:00am to 10: 45 a.m. at Brandywine Valley Church, 7 Mt. Lebanon Rd., Wilmington, DE 19803.  The church will also host a celebration of life at 11 AM.  In honor of Gene’s memory a donation can be made to the Lifeshape Foundation at https://lifeshape.org/donate.