Eugene Allen Eldred, known affectionately as Gene, passed away on February 7, 2024, in Hastings, Michigan. Gene was born on June 16, 1937, in Bellevue, Michigan, the son of Verdan Wolf and Dorothy May (Loomis) Eldred.

 

Gene grew up in the close-knit community of Dowling, Michigan, where he learned the importance of family and the satisfaction of a day's work on the farm. His journey through life was shared with his beloved wife, Earline "Sue" (Sams) Eldred, whom he married on March 1, 1958. Their enduring love was a cornerstone of the family until her passing. Gene was also preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Gaylord Eldred.

 

A dedicated worker, Gene spent many years at the Angel Street Paper Mill, where he was a respected employee until his retirement in 1999. 

 

Gene was a man who found solace and excitement in the great outdoors. Farming, hunting, and fishing were not just hobbies but a way of life he embraced wholeheartedly. The art of making maple syrup was one of his many skills, and he took great pride in sharing this tradition with others. Above all, Gene's greatest joy was found spending time with family.

 

Gene's legacy continues through his loving family. He is survived by his children, Joe (Lisa) Eldred, Jill (Mike) Owens, Jeff Eldred, and Jason (Tricia) Eldred, his grandchildren, George, Macie, Myles, Anna, Chelsea, and Mitchell, and his great-grandchildren, Ayden, Zoe, Emma, Arya, Ember, Eli, and Ella. Gene is also survived by his brother, David (Shirley) Eldred, special in-law, Nancy Sams, and several nieces and nephews.

 

A family gathering to celebrate Gene's life is being planned for later this summer. Contributions in memory of Gene can be made to Corewell Health Hospice,  https://give.corewellhealth.org/hospice/donate. Arrangements by Girrbach Funeral Home. To leave an online condolence visit www.girrbachfuneralhome.net.