Gene was my date for the Senior Prom at Palo Verde and a friend. We attended Rincon Congregational Church together as well, but our paths separated for college. He went on to do great things and his untimely death was tragic.
I just learned of his passing as we had not been in touch since high school. I was always in awe of the really smart kids at Palo Verde!! I don't consider myself dumb but when you have 2 National Merit Scholarship winners in your class and a math genius like Marshall Buck - you can be intimidated.
In cleaning out a box of memories I found the attached newspaper articles and Googled his name to see where he was now - and got the shocking news. My sincere (very late) sympathy to his family. He was such a wonderful friend - I'm glad he kept that great smile and attitude throughout his life!
If by some chance you don't have these articles on Gene's achievements at Palo Verde I would be happy to send you these originals from the newspaper. Best wishes, Dede (Deanna Wilson) Durkee; deannadurkeecpa@gmail.com