Friday, June 17, 2022
My sincere condolences. I first met Gene and Renata 4 days before Mothers Day 1986. All hands were on deck whilst I tried to find the perfect arrangement for my mother. The phone was ringing off the hook, and I heard Renata say 'Would someone get that phone please!' I answered the phone, took the order, and the next thing i knew, I was busy for the next 3 days. The funny part was Gene. I thought I was doing a wonderful job when Gene, his bass rumble of a voice booming off the walls 'And who do we have here'. I almost fainted there and then. I found Gene's dry humor much to my liking. he had a certain ability to see right to the crux of a given situation. Even better was his generosity in helping those who needed that something extra to make it through their tough times. That help ranged from a kick in the pants, to a person that you could confide in and get sound advice. I admired Gene very much, he helped shape some of my personality traits. A very kind man, who did very good things, and exemplified the term 'grace under pressure'. Gene, as one of the lucky ones to know you a little, thank you sir.
