Eugene F. “Gene” Wallace, 86, of Coldwater, passed away Monday, August 15, 2022 at Maple Lawn.
The funeral service will be held Friday, August 19, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater with Pastor Shayne Looper from Lockwood Community Church officiating. Interment will follow at Oak Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday, August 18, 2022 from 4-7:00 PM at Dutcher Funeral Home in Coldwater.
Gene was born October 30, 1935 in Coldwater, MI to M.H. “Ted” and Freda (Petzke) Wallace. He married G. Louise Shapley on February 9, 1957 in Kalamazoo. She preceded him in death on March 27, 2002. He married Sharon (Musselman) Franz in July 2004.
Mr. Wallace earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Education from Western MI University. He had a career that began with teaching and many years of administration, serving as principal at Edison and Girard Schools and a long- time Assistant Superintendent for the Coldwater Community School System. Gene was the director of many summer school and adult education programs and was instrumental in the development of the educational TV systems, used within our schools. He served in many capacities with many professional organizations to further develop education in the state of Michigan. Locally, Gene was very active within the community serving on boards and committees including the First Presbyterian Church, Little League baseball, Kiwanis Club and the Community Health Center Board of Trustees. He also served as Coldwater Mayor from 2003-2011.
Gene is survived by his wife Sharon; his children Kevin (Tamara) Wallace of Elwood, IN, Eric Wallace of Coldwater; step daughter Katherine (Lea Ann Evlin) Campos of Atlanta, GA; his grandchildren Heather Wallace, Benjamin Wallace, Britany Wallace, Kimberly Malot, Morgan Stevens, Brodie Wallace, Marc Campos and 3 great grandchildren. In addition to this first wife, he was preceded in death by his brother Gordon Wallace.
Memorials may be directed to the American Heart Association. www.dutcherfh.com.
Uncle Gene was such a wonderful man and quite the gentleman. He worked tirelessly to serve his community. I have many fabulous memories spending with Uncle (mean Gean) Gene and Aunt Louise, along with cousins Kevin and Eric. Many fine times with my family during the summer and at Christmas. I sure love that family and the memories. Uncle Gene will be sorely missed by all those who were family and the community. Farewell and rest in peace Uncle Gene.
Your favorite niece, Kathy