Contributions to the tribute of Eugene F. Gartland

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The family of Eugene F. Gartland uploaded a photo

Friday, June 16, 2017

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The family of Eugene F. Gartland uploaded a photo

Friday, June 16, 2017

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The family of Eugene F. Gartland uploaded a photo

Friday, June 16, 2017

terlynn bennett posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

I am still dealing with the lost, of my oldest brother in-law. I have so many untold thanks for being who you were Gene. You have always been there for the whole family. Gave my big sister a wonderful life and by being you, your love of life has blessed us all. I will miss so many things about you, mostly your wonderful laugh. I just can not tell you how much you meant to me. please be blessed and say hello to my Dad , his brother and all the other family members , I only wish I had told you how much you were to me. love and hope to see you someday.

P

PeggyPLHN posted a condolence

Monday, January 16, 2012

It has taken me a week to be able to write something about Gene. The shock and the pain will probably stay with me a lot longer, but it is time for me to express my joy in claiming him as my son, the wonderful husband of my oldest daughter,and the devoted father of my grandchildren. Gene was more than a son to me. He was my good friend, my laughing companion, one I shared so many small things with as well as the large ones. He would always come over, laptop in hand to share something with me, or just to talk. He knew I wanted to go to Ireland to find my father's family and helped to make it happen. One of the last things he did was to plan this years trip again, so that we could again spend time with our family across the big pond. He wanted to do that for me. That is the kind of person he was. Everyone knows Gene as the tremendous human being that he was, full of laughter and enthusiasm and love for life that he showed the world, but few knew the love and kindness he expressed to his family. He has left a huge hole in my life, one that no one else can ever fill. He will forever influence my life and the lives of all my family. My beloved son Gene. He will always be here with us. His laughter will always be heard and will fill our home!

P

PeggyPLHN posted a condolence

Monday, January 16, 2012

It has taken me a week to be able to write something about Gene. The shock and the pain will probably stay with me a lot longer, but it is time for me to express my joy in claiming him as my son, the wonderful husband of my oldest daughter,and the devoted father of my grandchildren. Gene was more than a son to me. He was my good friend, my laughing companion, one I shared so many small things with as well as the large ones. He would always come over, laptop in hand to share something with me, or just to talk. He knew I wanted to go to Ireland to find my father's family and helped to make it happen. One of the last things he did was to plan this years trip again, so that we could again spend time with our family across the big pond. He wanted to do that for me. That is the kind of person he was. Everyone knows Gene as the tremendous human being that he was, full of laughter and enthusiasm and love for life that he showed the world, but few knew the love and kindness he expressed to his family. He has left a huge hole in my life, one that no one else can ever fill. He will forever influence my life and the lives of all my family. My beloved son Gene. He will always be here with us. His laughter will always be heard and will fill our home!

P

PeggyPLHN posted a condolence

Monday, January 16, 2012

It has taken me a week to be able to write something about Gene. The shock and the pain will probably stay with me a lot longer, but it is time for me to express my joy in claiming him as my son, the wonderful husband of my oldest daughter,and the devoted father of my grandchildren. Gene was more than a son to me. He was my good friend, my laughing companion, one I shared so many small things with as well as the large ones. He would always come over, laptop in hand to share something with me, or just to talk. He knew I wanted to go to Ireland to find my father's family and helped to make it happen. One of the last things he did was to plan this years trip again, so that we could again spend time with our family across the big pond. He wanted to do that for me. That is the kind of person he was. Everyone knows Gene as the tremendous human being that he was, full of laughter and enthusiasm and love for life that he showed the world, but few knew the love and kindness he expressed to his family. He has left a huge hole in my life, one that no one else can ever fill. He will forever influence my life and the lives of all my family. My beloved son Gene. He will always be here with us. His laughter will always be heard and will fill our home!

P

PeggyPLHN posted a condolence

Monday, January 16, 2012

It has taken me a week to be able to write something about Gene. The shock and the pain will probably stay with me a lot longer, but it is time for me to express my joy in claiming him as my son, the wonderful husband of my oldest daughter,and the devoted father of my grandchildren. Gene was more than a son to me. He was my good friend, my laughing companion, one I shared so many small things with as well as the large ones. He would always come over, laptop in hand to share something with me, or just to talk. He knew I wanted to go to Ireland to find my father's family and helped to make it happen. One of the last things he did was to plan this years trip again, so that we could again spend time with our family across the big pond. He wanted to do that for me. That is the kind of person he was. Everyone knows Gene as the tremendous human being that he was, full of laughter and enthusiasm and love for life that he showed the world, but few knew the love and kindness he expressed to his family. He has left a huge hole in my life, one that no one else can ever fill. He will forever influence my life and the lives of all my family. My beloved son Gene. He will always be here with us. His laughter will always be heard and will fill our home!

P

Pauline and David Wallace posted a condolence

Saturday, January 14, 2012

Pauline and David Wallace (Belfast). We had the great privilege of meeting Eugene last May. We were very fortunate to have been able to have spent a few days with Eugene, Wendy, Ian and Peggy. Eugene had a great sense of fun and was clearly so knowledgeable. He utilised every minute in Belfast with a passion to learn more, to explore the culture, history and landscape. It was so apparent that Gene loved his family, he was so proud of them all. Gene embraced life; he appeared too capitalised on every minute, keen to learn more, with a great sense of enthusiasm and joy. It was so good for us to have had the opportunity to have met Gene, he was such a pleasure. We pass on our sincerest sympathy to Wendy, Ian, Erin, Carrie, Peggy and all the family.

C

Carolyn Argust posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

Tom and I loved traveling with Nature Discoveries - Alaska, Hawaii and Big Bend - were all enhanced by Gene's wonderful leadership. His sense of humor and love of science were infectious. We mourn his passing. Carolyn & Tom

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William (Bill) Bennett posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

Gene was such a unique individual. I always enjoyed our talks, he had so much knowledge. Thanks to Gene my family got to meet our Rochester family. Gene found my Dad who was Dave Bennett's brother. So my Dad and Uncle Dave finally met each other about ten and a half years ago. We were so happy to to meet each other as we got to expand our family. Gene is now with my Uncle Dave and my Dad. May they all R.I.P. piece. Thank you Gene for such a wonderful gift you gave us all! I will never forget! Wendy, I am thinking of you and sending love your way!

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Linda Hendrix posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

Dear Wendy, Erin and the rest of Gene's family - I am so sorry for your loss. Having worked closely with Gene for many years at REOC, I know it must be a deep and great loss for you because family was always at the top of Gene's priorities. In my book, Gene was definately one of the good ones. A good person, a good citizen, a good teacher. I admire the quality of humble intelligence in people, and Gene was definately on that list for me. He was smart , but he wasn't pretentious or showy about his intelligence - he just was who he was and, sooner than later, you'd see just how bright his light was. I also admired the way he energized what he taught with his passion about the subject. Sometimes you could hear him teaching clear down the hall; that was very endearing. And I loved taking field trips with him - that man knew so much more about the geology, archeology and history of this area than anyone I've ever met. I told him more than once that he really should have had a tv show taking the audience on "field trips" like the ones he did for REOC. He just made it all come alive - the way he wove everything together with such energy and enthusiasm. My condolences to you all, Gene was quite a guy.

J

Judie Farress and Eldon Remy posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

We were privileged to be in Alaska with Gene. He added much to the trip. He was able, and always willing, to share his knowledge and interpret what we were seeing, adding much to the quality of our trip. Equally important to our remembrances was how pleasant and congenial he always was. We have many fond memories of our time with Gene.

S

Shea Simpson posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

I feel very lucky to have known Gene. He was like a father to me for many years and I always felt welcome in his home. What I remember best about Gene was his show-n-tell. I always loved fossils, rocks, coins et cetera but with Gene it was even more fun and I would look forward to the show at every visit. I know that Gene made a difference in so many lives both personal and in his teaching career. He was quick to smile, laugh, love life, nice to everyone except the kitchen sink and other plumbing. I wish I could be there today to hear about exploding bushes and peanut butter-n-jelly tricks but know that I am there in my thoughts and in my heart. Thank you to the Gartland/Bennett clan for sharing such a wonderful man with us and know that he is deeply missed. My love to Wendy, Ian, Erin, Carrie, Peggy, Sarah and the rest of his family.

K

Kassy posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

Uncle Gene, I don't have the words to express how much you mean to me, nor the the words to explain how totally heartbroken I am. Your enthusiasm and zest for life was infectious and I am a better, and more complete person because you were a part of my life. Thank you for believing in all of us and always being there for your family. You always made me feel important and special. I love you so very much!

S

Sue Weiler posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

Wendy, Ian, Erin, Carrie and all the many other Gartlands. Gene was so much a part of all of our lives and he was so very much loved. You seldom meet such a talented, unique, loving man like Gene. He will always be in my heart and my memories, not just as a brother in law, but as a very special friend.

J

Jennifer posted a condolence

Friday, January 13, 2012

I was a student of Professor Gartland. When I heard the news, I was deeply saddened. My sympathies go his family. Professor Gartland was crazy in a GOOD way. He was so involved in his teaching; very passionate. He also was very positive and supportive. I'll always remember going in early to the next class after we took a test. I would explain to him how hard it was, how I struggled, and that I was really overwhelmed. Every time he had something new to say to me to make me feel better. But I'll always remember the time he told me "So, you got some wrong. The ones you get wrong are the ones you always remember." Sure enough, a question a Jeopardy was a question related to one of Professor's Gartland test questions that I got wrong and this time, I answered it right. Professor Gartland is awesome and I'll always remember him.

S

Samantha Henchen posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

I was just in professor gartlands geography class this last semester. I just wanted to say that I am so thankful to have had him. I never would have done nearly as well if I had someone else. He was always so eager to help and his enthusiasm and constant good mood made me so interested in what we were doing. He was wonderful man and I as well as many students will miss him very much. My thoughts and prayers are with the family through this difficult time.

S

Samantha Henchen posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

I was just in professor gartlands geography class this last semester. I just wanted to say that I am so thankful to have had him. I never would have done nearly as well if I had someone else. He was always so eager to help and his enthusiasm and constant good mood made me so interested in what we were doing. He was wonderful man and I as well as many students will miss him very much. My thoughts and prayers are with the family through this difficult time.

S

Sue Boettger & Bill Gruenbaum posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

We are so sad to learn of Gene's untimely passing. Gene was the co-leader of two trips we took with Nature Discoveries, to Alaska in 2002 and to Big Bend in 2007. We remember Gene trying to explain some fine points of Alaskan geology to us while we were distracted by birds. And when our tour was stranded in El Paso for an extra three days by an East Coast storm, Gene quickly arranged for day trips to White Sands and Carlsbad Caverns. He was a very personable man and we will miss him.

j

joyce lindley posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

I was saddened to read of Gene's untimely death. As a very satisfied and happy traveler with Nature Discoveries I'm sorry that he won't be guiding these trips any more. My sincere condolences to his family and friends.

P

Patty Noonan-Sullivan posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

I had "Mr. Gartland" for 7th and 8th grade science at St. Charles from '74-'76. He was one of my all-time favorite teachers, and I have never forgotten his love of "eurypterids" (sp?), his infectious enthusiasm for science, but most of all his gentleness with an awkward, shy junior high student. My sympathies to his wife and family for your loss.

J

Johanna Igoe posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

It was not long after my own father died but he, Gene, was showing and educating me on all sorts of different rocks. There were a particular bunch that struck me, they were tiny--look like diamonds but of course are not and I've long forgotten what their proper name is. However, what reminds me the most is that these 5 stones had characteristics (the size of the stones) that I attributed to my family, a PAPA stone, a momma, brother, sister and the littlest stone me. At 11 or 12 years old, without my father, I loved being the littlest stone because, that was how my family was supposed to be. Gene gave me that reminder, with stones and he let me keep those stones. Which was a big deal for me. They are to this day tucked away in my memory box of my father. Gene is a part of that. He always will be. I'll be never forget the day he gave me the stones.

D

David and Sharon Bertsch posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Prayers to Mr. Gartland's family. He was a very nice man and will be missed.

k

kathleen dalton posted a condolence

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Bill, my dear neighbor, I am so sorry to hear about Gene. I went on a trip to yellowstone with him . He was so knowledgeable, gentle and kind . What I loved most about being in his presence was his ability to make me laugh - what a great gift ! He was so funny and fun to be with. I am so sorry for your loss but am sure he has left you with wonderful memories. Kathleen

B

Brian posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

When you played that peanut butter and jelly sandwich trick on me I didn't have the right words to explain how to do it. But you did teach me how to live and love life everyday.

J

Joyce posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

My heart is heavy and I am at total loss for words. How can I possibly explain how much Gene meant to me and always will mean to me. He inspired me with his enthusiasm for life and his zest for living every moment to its fullest. I knew Gene most of my life and I can't believe I will not hear his laugh or share in his many interests. I was jealous of Gene when I was 17 for taking my sister Wendy from me. Gene was the best thing for my sister and I am so happy he became such an important part of all of our lives. He will always be in our hearts.

S

Sean Kelleher posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Gene and I weren't introduced under particularly auspicious circumstances. In fact, he had just walked in on me kissing his youngest daughter! Thankfully, despite that unfortunate beginning, he always treated me as warmly as if I were family. I'll never forget the smile on his face when Carrie and I were finally married. I am so unbelievably sad to have to say goodbye to him. He was the purest soul I've ever met. He can never really be gone though. You can always hear him in his son's laughter. You can see him plainly in daughter's face. I can see his wonder and curiosity reflected in his grandchildren. And of course, I know he'll always be there in my wife's heart. I sincerely hope he rubbed off on me, and I hope it sticks.

S

Scott Rochette posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Please accept my deepest sympathies. We were extremely fortunate to have Gene teach for us. Not only was he fantastic at what he did, he was able to teach geography from the perspective of someone who's actually been to the places he discussed in class. He was always agreeable to whatever and whenever I asked him to teach. His never-ending good mood was contagious. While I will miss our many lengthy and varied conversations, I will always be thankful for having had them. Rest in peace, Professor.

s

sarah elizabeth posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Dear Gene, We argued on who you were to me. (you said I was not a relative because we didn't share blood; but finally you agreed to apease my request of relative (brother) on face book. You were married to my sister before I was born. In my child brain growing up I had a special family. My parents doubled as grandparents, my sisters as mothers, my nieces and nephews as siblings and my one constant brother in-law, whom I saw weekly, doubled as a second father. It was you who showed me the world outside, inspired interest in science, math and history. Today in my chosen field of dance my interest lies more in the scientific aspects; because of a life search to prove, share and have intelectual conversations with you. I wanted to make you proud. You made everything an adventure in fun. I remember Sunday donuts, fossil hunts, and nature hikes, vacations with the largest sandcastle villages on the beach; excitement over pennies brought you, like they were diamonds. I know everyone speaks of your laughter but I heard it so much; daily really, and waited for it to bring me out of grumps. How I want to hear you laugh again. You found joy in the little things, and taught that to everyone. Who I am today, includes pieces of my mom, dad, sisters 5 and you, my brother, teacher and second father. You took me in with all my animals, and loved us as if we were your children too. You appeased my funny yard decorations, which you did not want...hehehe. Walks in the golf course, down by the river, old garbage dumps, on the beach, through the swamps. Wood peckers, trout in the sewer, red-tailed hawks, the exploding bushes, bones and stones and dirt and more. I share your love of finding things. (Garbage Day!!!) The things I like today (maybe not what you'd find great), but look like something that you would, like my old coke bottle crate. Can I have the crate in the attic now? Flea markets, antiques and the open house down the street. I truly love these things and known all my life that this came from you. What I find humorous, the movies I like, politics, tv shows, antiques, and more is learned cultural aesthetics of you. The Pirates of Penzance!!! Walking in on voting day to find mom in one room with her list and you in another, with your map and markers. You always had an answer and if not you pointed me in a direction to find it myself. You never stopped living! You never stopped teaching. If you were not, you were researching, or researching for someone else. How many have to thank you for finding what they needed? How many have to thank you for lightening dark moments? You laughed everyday I swear all the time. The only time I knew I broke your heart is when I took my kitty away and it broke mine. I asked you when daddy died if ever I got married if you'd walk me down the asile, and wear a kippa too. Every child brought in the house had time with Uncle Gene. Cookie Monster, How to make a peanut butter sandwich, grover, and the singing snails. When I was little it was your voice I listened for in the choir. I didn't tell you, you could go yet, Gene, but you always did things your way; and always turned out right. So I will trust this time is right too, and hope you are looking down proud of all of the children you have raised. Not just your special 3, but all the children in the family; mine and yours, those who knew you, learned from you, and grew from you..... and me I hope you are proud of me too. You lived.... Really lived and shared all of you. Thank you for marrying my sister and loving us, teaching us, taking care of us, and thank you for being you. Give Daddy my love and all of both your siblings too. All my Love, Your wayward, silly, sister Sarah ( to me, still your g_d daughter and g_d mother to your Carrie)

J

Justin Jackson posted a condolence

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

I had Eugene as a geography professor at Brockport. He was such an incredibly passionate instructor and one of the best I have ever had. He was always smiling, even at those early classes, and cared so much that we learned. I had studied for the wrong quiz once and Eugene was kind enough to give me the quiz for the one I studied. Great man. My prayers and thoughts are with your family and friends.

A

Andrea Ross posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Deepest sympathy to you Bill, and your whole family. John and Andrea

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Daniel Ferrante posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

My deepest sympathy is extended to Geneâ€™s family, especially his wife Wendy, who was my daughter Christinaâ€™s teacherâ€™s aide in kindergarten. I am in shock having seen Gene just a couple a months ago at REOC for another field trip. I am honored to have known him. He was one of the nicest people I have ever known. I am honored to occupy his former classroom as my current classroom.

S

Sheryl Gonzalez posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Gene taught thousands of students here at the REOC, but he also taught faculty and staff. He shared so much and will be missed but not forgotten.

P

Pastor Meg Morin posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

I have always thought that my eyes began to see life differently and my heart for people was made to grow larger and larger because I worked with Gene. I can hear his infectious laugh right now. Gene loved and was love.

M

Maria Fournier posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Deepest sympathy to Gene's family -- especially to Erin. Your dad was known and loved by his REOC family. His contributions to the center, staff, students and community at large will be greatly remembered. He was a pleasurable colleague and will always be remembered.

J

Joshua Morgan posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Our family is blessed to have a man like Uncle Gene in our lives. I will never forget his happiness and excitement. He found a way to make everything fun and just being around him would make you smile. I learned a lot from Uncle Gene and would give anything to have spent more time with him. He carried with him a wealth of knowledge and experience everywhere he went. When I try to describe Uncle Gene to my friends 3 words would always come up, Genius, Joy and Excitement. If you had a question Uncle Gene knew the answer, if you were sad Uncle Gene could find a way to brighten your day and everything was more fun with Uncle Gene his shear excitement for life could make a trip to the grocery store an adventure. I will always remember you Uncle Gene.

L

Leslie Locketz posted a condolence

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

My heart is heavy. I am so sorry for your loss,my loss, our loss, Rochester's loss, this wide world's loss. Gene helped us all appeciate, understand, and enjoy this Earth better, deeper! His booming voice and enthusiasm live on!

Eugene F. Gartland

1950 - 2012

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