Eugene Peter Jeljenic, known professionally as Gene Rayburn, was born on December 22, 1917, in Christopher, Illinois, to Croatian immigrant parents. 

After losing his father in infancy, he was raised in Chicago, where he developed an early interest in acting and performance. He graduated from Lindblom Technical High School and attended Knox College, serving as senior class president and appearing in school plays.

During World War II, Rayburn enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces, serving from 1942 to 1945. He achieved the rank of Second Lieutenant and contributed to the war effort before returning to civilian life and pursuing his career in entertainment.

Rayburn began his professional journey in radio, working as an announcer and co-hosting popular morning shows in New York City. His work with Jack Lescoulie and later Dee Finch helped establish the morning drive-time radio format. He also co-wrote lyrics for songs such as “Hop-Scotch Polka” and influenced music programming during his time at WNEW.

Transitioning to television, Rayburn became a familiar face to audiences as the announcer on The Tonight Show with Steve Allen in the 1950s. He went on to host several game shows, including The Sky’s the Limit, Make the Connection, and Tic Tac Dough. His most enduring role came in 1962 when he first hosted Match Game. The show’s revival in 1973 on CBS became a cultural phenomenon, known for its humor, celebrity panelists, and Rayburn’s signature long microphone. His wit and charm made him one of the most recognizable game show hosts of the era.

Beyond game shows, Rayburn appeared in theater and television productions, including a stint in the Broadway musical Bye Bye Birdie and guest roles on The Love Boat. His career spanned more than five decades, and he was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Rayburn married Helen Ticknor in 1940, and together they had one daughter, Lynn. Helen preceded him in death in 1996. Gene Rayburn spent his final years in Massachusetts, where he passed away from congestive heart failure. His remains were cremated, with ashes scattered in his daughter’s garden.

He is remembered as a pioneering figure in broadcast entertainment, a veteran of World War II, and a host whose humor and warmth brought joy to millions of viewers.