Gene entered the Army in 1962 after high school. He worked with Nike missles at bases in the US & Germany. After discharge in 1968 he began a family in California. He raised 2 sons, currently police officers. In 1980 he moved to FL and met current wife Kathy. Retirement brought 2 wonderful grandchildren, travelling, golf & genealogy. He was diagnosed with ALS in 10/2005 and lead a full & happy life while facing ALS head on until his death 2/2010.