Eugene Koci Obituary

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eugene George Koci, a beloved husband, father, teacher, and community volunteer. Gene peacefully passed away on August 18 in the care of the staff at Mayo Hospital and surrounded by family. He was 86 years old.

Gene graduated from Phillips High School and went on to get his bachelor's degree in biology education and his masters in school administration. Gene was passionate about his career in education and loved his work with students and adults alike. Gene began teaching high school biology in Bay View, Wisconsin and continued at Winter, Wisconsin. He later served as an administrator in the Cadott, and Durand school districts.

Married 63 years, Gene and Mary were classmates at Phillips High School. They had three children: Jill, David and Jean.

Gene was an avid outdoorsman and found solace and joy in the great outdoors. He would fondly speak of fishing trips to Canada, hunting trips to Wyoming and camping with his family. He often shared his knowledge and skills with others, teaching them the art of fishing, hunting, and surviving in the wilderness.

Gene believed in the power of giving back and spent much of his free time volunteering. He had a heart for service and was an active member of the Eau Claire Seymour Lions Club. He also spent many hours volunteering at Feed My People food bank, Meals on Wheels and the Salvation Army. Gene especially enjoyed sharing his knowledge of history with the children visiting the Chippewa Valley Museum.

Gene is survived by his wife, Mary; daughter, Jill Neville (Bill); son, David Koci (Becky); daughter, Jean Meyer (Scott); and six grandchildren, Paige, Leslie, Sam, Ryan, Claire and Annabelle.

A celebration of Gene's life will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Monday, September 9 at the VFW on Starr Avenue in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

The family encourages memorials to Feed My People or the Eau Claire Seymour Lions Club.