Gene was a graduate of Attica High School. He served in the US Army Engineers from 1963 to 1965 where he was trained as a heavy equipment operator. He was retired from the Wyoming Correctional Facility where he had been employed as a Vocational Supervisor. Gene was a lifelong resident of Attica. He grew up on his parents’ farm on Dunbar Road and as a teen he worked for several local farmers. This is where he developed his love of horses that led him into rodeo. He competed in several events, including bronc riding, steer wrestling and bull riding. He was one of the founding members of the Attica Rodeo and Show Association. Gene raised horses and hay on his farm in Attica. Through the years he taught many of the teens who worked for him to operate a variety of farm machinery and heavy equipment. He encouraged all who would listen to get a good education. A few years ago Gene’s lifetime skills, knowledge of construction and friendships with other skilled tradesmen allowed him to be his own contractor when he built a new house for himself and his wife. Gene was a hard working, decent, quiet man. He was known for his sense of humor and was still telling jokes the day before he passed away. He was a private person who didn’t often discuss his faith but he accepted Christ as his savior. If pressed on the subject he would say, “Me and God are tight.” Those closest to him are certain he’s in Heaven now.
He is survived by his loving wife Nancy Reding of Attica; stepdaughter Lisa Lambiase of Chicago; sister Ann Meek (William) Nye of East Aurora and 2 nephews.
Friends are invited to call on Saturday August 22, 2015 from 11:00-1:00PM at Marley Funeral Home, LLC 135 Main Street Attica, New York 14011. A 1:00 PM Funeral Service will immediately follow. He will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made to the Attica Fire Department 11 Water Street Attica, New York 14011 or the Wilmot Cancer Center 601 Elmwood Avenue Rochester, NY 14642. For more information please call 585-591-1212 or to leave a message of condolence please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC. 135 Main Street Attica, New York 14011.
