90 years of legacy: the passing of Gene England, legendary leader of C.R. England

Gene England, an icon in the transportation industry, passed away at the age of 105, leaving a legacy of integrity and dedication.

Eugene “Gene” Knight England, emeritus president of C.R. England and one of the most recognized names in the road transportation sector, passed away on November 13 at the age of 105. Just a few weeks after celebrating his 105th birthday, Gene left an indelible legacy, both in his family and in the North American transportation industry.

Gene was a key figure in transforming C.R. England from a small family business into one of the largest refrigerated and general freight carriers on the continent. Under his leadership, the Salt Lake City-based company became one of the top 30 fleets in North America.

Gene England: 90 years of service to road transportation

Born on October 24, 1919, in Plain City, Utah, Gene began his career in transportation at a young age. At just 14 years old, he obtained his commercial driver’s license in Idaho and began working alongside his father, Chester (C.R.), and his brother Bill, transporting agricultural products between Utah, Wyoming, and Idaho.

After serving in the U.S. Army during World War II, Gene returned home and purchased a 1940 Kenworth truck. Along with his brother Bill, he joined his father in managing the family business, which later became known as C.R. England & Sons. Over time, Gene bought out his brother’s share and assumed the presidency of the company, maintaining the business as a model of family continuity.

Today, C.R. England operates over 4,000 trucks and 6,000 trailers and continues to be a pillar of the road transportation sector, generating approximately $1.5 billion in annual revenue. At the age of 90, Gene officially retired from the company, shortly after the passing of his wife, June, with whom he had six children, 32 grandchildren, 81 great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

England’s legacy, an icon of the transportation industry

Gene England, an icon in the transportation industry, passed away leaving a legacy of integrity and dedication. In a statement, C.R. England shared the following: “He was one of the original truck drivers, driving millions of miles throughout his life while leading the company with his brother, sons, and grandchildren.” The company highlighted his passion for transportation and his love for the profession, despite his responsibilities in the office. It also emphasized his commitment to faith and family, as well as his tireless advocacy for truckers and the industry.

Gene England’s legacy will endure in the industry, not only through the company he built but also through the values of family and hard work that he promoted throughout his life. For those wishing to honor his memory, C.R. England has indicated that the best way to do so is by thanking truck drivers for their service to communities and the country.