Eugene E. “Gene” Hart 96, Rochester, passed away at 2:05 P.M. Saturday, July 8, 2023 at his residence.

Gene was born on March 13, 1927, in Coshocton, Ohio, the son of Clifford E. and Mabel (Bowman) Hart. Following High School graduation, Gene served in the United States Navy during World War II.

On August 27, 1947 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, he married Annabelle L. Swan. She preceded him in death on January 3, 2017.

Gene started his working career in sales working for various businesses before moving to Rochester in the late 1950’s. He worked for many years as manager for Wilson Corn Products where he helped develop the bird seed business, retiring from there in 1992. He had been a member of Community Presbyterian Church, Rochester Elk’s Lodge and an active member in the North American Miller’s Association. In his leisure time he enjoyed, hunting, fishing, trap shooting, gardening, working in his yard, and playing bridge.

Survivors include his daughter, Gretchen Walter (Vince Stewart), Rochester, Indiana, grandson, Christopher Walter, Greenwood, Indiana, nephew, who he helped raise, Jim (Kathy) Cross, Valparaiso, Indiana. He was preceded in death by his parents, son, Christopher E. Hart, and sister, Carol Klessig.

Funeral services will be conducted at 10:30 A.M. Friday, July 14, 2023 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.

Friends may visit from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Thursday and one hour prior to service Friday at the funeral home.

Burial will be in the Citizens Cemetery, Rochester, Indiana, where military graveside services will be conducted by the Fulton County Veterans’ Honor Guard. Memorial contributions may be made to the Community Presbyterain Church. Online condolences may be expressed at www.zimmermanbrosfh.com