Gene was an outstanding athlete at GFC, earning nine letters while participating in football, wrestling, and track.  Gene played varsity football for three seasons. He also excelled in the pole vault on the track team. Gene placed 4th in the state track meet in 1970 and set the school pole vault record with a vault of 13’6” in 1970. Gene’s greatest successes came on the wrestling mat. Gene had a 66-9 career record during his three varsity wrestling seasons. He was a three-time EDC Tournament placer including winning the championship in his junior and senior seasons. Gene was also a three-time state placer. He placed fourth as a sophomore and junior and finished his career with a perfect 32-0 record and the 155 lb. state championship his senior year. Gene was named the 1971 GFC Senior Athlete of the Year.

After graduating from Central, Gene attended Brigham Young University and wrestled on scholarship all four years. Gene twice qualified for the NCAA Division I Tournament. After graduating from Brigham Young, Gene attended the University of Florida School of Dentistry and graduated with a DMD degree.  Gene served as a dentist in the US Air Force from 1981-1985 and is now a general dentist in Florida.  Gene and his wife of 40 years, Sarah, have three sons and a daughter, as well as seven grandchildren.

Gene believes the great coaches and great student-athletes set GFC apart from other schools. The school fostered excellence in every endeavor. Gene related that Cliff Cushman's story was very fresh and his picture was prominently displayed in the school. His challenge to the students of GFC to always strive for excellence was taken seriously.

Gene recalls, “I have many fond memories of my GFC years. Certainly, the wrestling championship in 1971 is a highlight. The school and community were very generous in their celebration and praise. Over the years I have come to better appreciate how well GFC prepared me for college and adult life. The faculty and coaches were superb. I will always be grateful for their guiding influence.”