Gene E. Willaman

Gene E. Willaman, formerly of Cambridge, Ohio, passed peacefully on Tuesday, June 30, 2015, in Columbus, Ohio. Preceded in death by parents, Percy and Mildred Willaman, sister Polly (White) Dunlap, nephew Tom White, Jr. Survived by wife of 64 years, Nancy A. (Witter) Willaman; daughter Debra Willaman (Tom Meyer) of Columbus; Doug (Tammy) Willaman of Amanda, Ohio; and Jenny (Bob) Caccimelio of Mason, Ohio. Grandchildren Logan, Erie and Anna Meyer; Emily Willaman-Terrell; Tyler and Matthew Willaman; Kristen and Gina Caccimelio; and great-granddaughter Madilyn Terrell. Nephews Brian and Steve White; nephew Mike (Madeline) Witter and niece Melinda Dare. Also survived by aunts, cousins and special friends in North Canton, Cambridge, Strongsville, Zanesville, Columbus, and Charleston, WV. Born on February 17, 1929 in North Canton, Ohio, Gene was a wonderful husband, father, brother, son, grandfather, great-grandfather, cousin and uncle. A lifelong sportsman, Gene was an ethical and talented hunter and fisherman, and he played football, basketball and baseball in high school. Gene enjoyed many years of golf with Nancy and many friends at Cambridge County Club. Gene retired from his 26+ year career with Columbia Gas, which took the family to Cambridge, Zanesville, Strongsville, Columbus and Charleston, WV. Gene was very involved in all of the communities in which they lived, and he was a strong supporter of the Dickens Village in Cambridge. Gene was very thoughtful, and enjoyed writing and creating. He has authored a baseball instruction book for children, created and marketed a gas cost calculator, and designed and still sells Salt Fork fishing maps. Gene was a prolific writer and wrote the “Fish Tales” column in the Daily Jeffersonian for many years, as well as numerous editorials and letters to the editor. In his column entitled “How's Come...”, many remember his “Crazy Eddie” character. Nancy and the family appreciate the love and support of all of their loved ones. Services will be held on Friday, July 3, 2015, at Unity Presbyterian Church in Cambridge. Visiting hours are 2-5 pm, with the funeral service commencing at 5:00 pm. Friends and family are invited to the Church's Fellowship Hall after the service for refreshments. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Unity Presbyterian Church or the Wesley Glen Retirement Community, in Columbus, Ohio.

Gene E. Willaman

February 17, 1929 - June 30, 2015