Gene M. Orchard
January 26, 1932 ~ January 20, 2021
Gene M. Orchard, age 88, of Geneva, passed away Wednesday, January 20, 2021 at Geneva Shores Nursing Home. He was born January 26, 1932 in Braceville, OH, to David and Gladys (Champlin) Orchard. He married Jeannette Orchard on August 18, 1972, in Unionville, Ohio
Gene taught Physical Education at Madison Schools and was a combat veteran of the Korean War. He was a very spiritual person and had been a member of Bible Baptist Church in Madison. He owned the Madison Driving School and taught so many young people how to drive—and to do jumping jacks, since he also taught physical education. Gene enjoyed traveling the U.S. with his wife and motor home. He loved time spent with children and grandchildren. His hobbies included being active with the YMCA and his golf league.
He is survived by daughters, Gail Grow, Pat (Tom) Hopkins; sons, Mark Orchard, Michael (Megan) Herrick, Donald (Lisa) Colagross, Larry Colagross, Jr.;14 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; sisters, Florence, and Darlene.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeannette; his parents; sisters, Vivian and Eloise; brother, Richard in infancy.
Gene will have a private Celebration, honoring his life, Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at The Behm Family Funeral Home in Madison Ohio. Final Resting Place will be White Haven Memorial Park, 615 Som Center Rd., Mayfield, Ohio, 44143.
Online obituary and condolences may be viewed at www.behmfuneral.com
Uncle Gene was one of the most loving men I’ve ever known! He was so good to Aunt Jeanettey and our family. He was a warrior of God’s and he touched so many people’s lives. I love you Uncle Gene and I’m so happy you’re in heaven with your loved ones! My favorite memory with you was when we all went to Outer Banks.
With caring thoughts,
In memory of Gene M. Orchard, Margaret Pivonka lit a candle
I had Mr. Orchard in school as my gym teacher and he was a super nice person and teacher. I ran into him often in Madison and he was always cheerful and friendly. He will be missed.
Peace, Prayers and Blessings
It was my pleasure to know Gene and Jan. Their love of family and their devotion to each other was wonderful to see. They made the world a better place. Rosemary Krejsa