Gene, today being your birthday, I just wanted to tell you that I love you and I miss you every day. It pains me that I cannot reach out to you and talk to you anymore. You were my sage advisor, my mentor, my dad, my provider of hope and strength and encouragement. I never appreciated you enough during your life so please now, know, I love you and I appreciate everything you did for me. You never had to, but you stepped up, and you were my father. Thank you. I'll miss you forever. I love you dad.

Dear Carol and family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Colin and Marilou have often spoke lovingly of Gene and your family during your vacations. Although we have not met Gene, your memorial website tell of his character and a inspiring love of nature. May peace come to you knowing that his life was full and that he nurtured that love through you and your family. His memory will live in those thoughts and deeds of the people that he had touched. With our sincere condolences, The Peck Family Jim, Cecilia and Nathan

I first met Gene when I came to work for UCSD back in 1985. Gene was one of the faculty members that could always make me smile— even when he was bringing me a stack of files to process. We always tried to have a cup of coffee before our weekly meetings with the admissions committee. And you know Gene liked his coffee. Gene you were wonderful to work with…I will miss your smile and your friendship. My thoughts the past few days have been why did this happen? Maybe you were taken early so God could learn how to ride a horse? Or, maybe He wanted to learn more about the stars of the Universe and He needed a teacher. What ever His reason, Gene will be sorely missed. My condolences go out to Carol and family, and to all Gene’s friends, UCSD colleagues, and students. May God bless you during this difficult time. Debra Bomar