Eugene Allan “Gene” Penrod, age 69, of New Philadelphia, Ohio, went home to his Savior on Friday, February 21, 2025. Gene passed in his home after a 17-year battle with Parkinson’s Disease. Born in Dover, Ohio on June 30, 1955, Gene was a son of the late Robert Dale and Rose Marie (Grasselli) Penrod. On September 10, 1983, he married the former Elaine Parrish and together they shared 41 years of marriage.
Professionally, Gene was employed as a welder. He worked for Dover Conveyor for a number of years before beginning his career at Dover Tank and Plate. In his free time, Gene was a gifted musician. He began playing the accordion at a young age, performing with a Swiss band in Sugarcreek. Later, he played the accordion and keyboard with the Wallick Brothers Band and most notably with “The Tex White Band.”
Gene loved working on the family farm. He enjoyed raising his animals, visiting with his parents, and utilizing his welding skills to patch up equipment. In his spare time, Gene, along with his wife Elaine, would take leisurely rides on his Harley that he named Angel. Gene, or “Hunky” as his friends called him, will be most remembered for his sense of humor, his willingness to always lend a hand, and his deep love for his family.
Gene is survived by his wife, Elaine; daughters, Genia (Joseph) Lightell and Brooke (Brody) Dessecker, both of New Philadelphia; and grandchildren, Dominic and Vincenzo Lightell, and Barrick, Brylee and Baela Dessecker. Also surviving are his sisters, Barb (George) Hess and Susie (Bernie) Ankrom; brother, Steve (Teresa) Penrod; sisters-in-law, Connie Hoover and Vicki (JW) Lorenz; brother-in-law, Roger Parrish; many cousins, including Kevin (Kelly) Parrish and Leroy “Bunker” Lillie; and lifelong friends, Joe Pena Jr. and Jimmy Wallick.
In addition to his parents, Gene is preceded in death by an infant brother, his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ronald and Vada Parrish Sr.; and brothers-in-law, Patrick Parrish, Ronald Parrish Jr. and Michael Hoover.
In keeping with Gene’s wishes, a private family burial will take place in Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia. Those wishing to honor his memory by a charitable contribution are encouraged to do so to the charity of their choice, in lieu of flowers. Gene’s family wish to extend their sincere gratitude to Ohio’s LifeCare Hospice for the care extended to him during his final illness.
R.K. Lindsey Funeral Home, Inc.
740.922.1970
www.lindseyfh.com
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