Gene Douglas Hemminger

Gene Hemminger, age 64, of Bolivar, died peacefully late Sunday evening, November 18, 2007, with his family by his side, in his home, which is surrounded by the trees and the elements of nature that he cherished. Born at Oak Harbor, Ohio, July 18, 1943, Gene was a son of the late Eugene and Ruth Greener Hemminger.Following graduation from high school at Oak Harbor in 1961, Gene received his undergraduate degree in Biology from Heidelberg College at Tiffin before continuing his education at Penn State where he received his Masters degree in Forestry.A naturally gifted athlete, Gene played rugby in college, and in 1976, was the founder of the Canton Rugby Football Club. As the club’s leader, he was instrumental in recruiting, coaching and mentoring many young men who came through the ranks of the club. For the past 25 years, Gene has served the City of North Canton. At the time of his death was the North Canton chief building official, zoning officer and superintendent of permits and inspections. He was a member of the Federal Building of Ohio Association. His co-workers and those community members Gene worked with will miss his tireless work ethic, his desire to help his constituents, and the passion he brought to his office. David J. Held, mayor of North Canton, proclaimed October 11, 2007, as Gene Hemminger Day in his city as a tribute to his faithful community service. Described by his family as a man among men, Gene was happiest when he was outdoors. Nearly a decade ago, he and his wife moved to the Bolivar area where their home, nestled in a forest, became his haven away from the bustle of city life. Gene spent most of his free time waging war against poison ivy and creating a habitat for his furry neighbors. Gene leaves behind a loving wife, the former Diana “Dee” Dickes, whom he met while at Heidelberg. The couple wed August 28, 1966, and together reared a family that includes a son, Thomas (Erin) Hemminger of Grand Haven, Michigan, and a daughter, Holly (Roy) Harold of Winfield; three grandchildren Tessa Harold, Alexis and Maddalen Hemminger. A sister, Sharon (Terry) Radsick of Clyde, Ohio, completes the family. The family will receive guests Friday afternoon from 2-4 and from 6-7 PM in the Geib Funeral Center at Dover, 5600 N. Wooster Avenue, where Chaplain Rick Brinsley will lead the Hemminger memorial service at 7PM. A reception will follow in the funeral center’s hospitality suite.Gene asked that those who wish to remember him would take the time to plant a tree and drink a cold beer, instead of sending flowers. Accordingly, the family will share memorial saplings with those in attendance, so that Gene’s wish may come true. Contributions may be made to Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 201 West Third Street, Dover, OH 44622. Geib Funeral Center at Dover330) 343-5506www.geibfuneral.com