My memories of Gene involve fun road trips, learning to waterski and all the other fun things to do while being towed behind a boat and being treated as part of his family. He had so many “Gene-isms” that were so endearing and will always make me smile! All my love to Linda, Jenny and Jason. And grandkids too. Big loss of a wonderful man. ❤️❤️

I have great memories of growing up with Gene and Linda. Their house was a magnet for us all, playing basketball, Hafor Rules, sleep overs, watching movies or debate team prep with Jason. Gene was always so generous with his time and taught me many things. One of my favorite stories is when he taught me how to water ski, he took me to a cove on the Res and threw me out the back. He said: “This is Hoover cove and you are not getting back in the boat until you get up on skis”. After many, many attempts, I finally got up and was hauled back in… I love skiing and I have him to thank for that. I also learned many helpful parenting tips from Gene. He used to call me “Supercamper”, which I loved and stoked my ego. It was only years later that I realized that he only called me that whenever a tent needed to be set up or a fire needed to be built…. Smart man. I have so many good memories of Gene and am praying for him and the rest of the family.

Gene (Smoothie), Richard Montross and later joined by Larry Brown and I carpooled to Amana everyday for over 15 years. Although I was unaware of Gene’s chorus experience in High School I did get a sample of his singing ability on the way home from work one night.

Smoothie and I had stopped on our way home at the Amana Meat Market to pick up a meat package for Dick Forestner. In passing I mentioned to George Schuerer that in all my years working in Amana I had never had Piestengel. George immediately went to the backroom and gave us a bottle of his best stuff. Shamefully, by the time we got to Tiffin we were both singing.

Upon arrival at my house Linda was on the phone with my wife asking about our whereabouts. When Jean told Linda we had just pulled up and were singing Linda replied “that’s just wonderful!

So many great memories and good stories. Peace,

My condolences to the family! It’s so hard to lose a loved one. I have many fond memories of Jason’s dad taking us waterskiing. He would take us early in the mornings before the res would get busy. Also I remember how it was important to wipe the boat down after pulling the boat out! I am so grateful that he offered his time so generously for these special moments.

Our deepest sympathy to Linda, Jason and Jenny. Our family has many fond memories of the years we lived across the street from each other on Hafor Drive. We had good times together, the Schucherts being the best neighbors anyone could hope for. Dwight also has happy memories of pheasant hunting with Gene and his Visla dog. Gene was a good man and we shall miss him. Take comfort in the fact that Gene is now face-to-face with the Light of the World. Once again, our sincere condolences.

Jean and Dwight Cruikshank