Gene Fickel, of Everett, passed away peacefully on Sept. 29, 2008 at the age of 78. He was born near Shallowater, Texas under a windmill in a cotton field.
Gene lived on Whidbey Island between the years of 1964 and 1988 when he moved to the Everett area. He and his family lived first outside Langley then in Clinton on 10 acres affectionately known as “The Farm.” During those years, he was the owner of two service stations: Clinton Shell, and Gene’s Texaco (now Naomi’s). Both provided gasoline, mechanical services and a first job for many a young man on the Island.
Gene was also a skilled woodworker, a gifted and inventive cook and an accomplished gardener. An example of his skill can still be seen in the sign at the Dan Porter Park in Clinton. He also carved one of the first “Welcome to Clinton” signs for the town. Gene was active during his time on the Island in the VFW, the American Legion, the Rod & Gun Club, the Island County Fair and a bowling team feared by many.
His greatest achievements were within his family and the many wonderful friendships he developed. He believed that family was those who you chose to love and be loved by. There was not a child he did not believe in, and he stood as pseudo grandfather to every child in the neighborhood. He was also father, friend, confessor and advisor to everyone he knew. Gene touched many lives with his humor and caring.
Gene is survived by his wife Dottie of 28 years; his children and stepchildren Laura, Michael, Anna (Mark), Matthew (Debbie), Debbie (Jimmy), Terri (Jerry), Julie, and child of his heart Kathleen (David); grandchildren Christopher (Stephanie), Nathaniel, Claudia, Lindsey, Lacey, Anthony and Brandon Lee; and great-grandchildren Alexis, Michael and Rain. Truthfully, however, if family is those who you chose to love, then Gene’s family numbers in the hundreds, and we are all thankful that he was in our lives. We will miss him greatly.
Condolences can be sent to Dottie and family at 1705 Hoyt Ave., Everett, WA 98201. Dottie would like to hear from you.
