Gene A. Nortum of Brockport, formerly of Wilcox and Johnsonburg, passed away May 6, 2023 at the age of 87 after a brief illness.

He was born on July 4, 1935, he was the son of the late Chester and Florence (Nagel) Nortum Cherry.

Gene served three years in the National Guard reserves. He had been employed at Weyerhaeuser retiring in 1997. He was a member of the Wilcox Sportmen’s Club, Brockport American Legion, Brockport Army & Navy Club, and the Ridgway Moose.

Gene was an avid motorcycle rider and hunter.  He enjoyed playing cards with his family until his last days.  He loved camping, always making the biggest campfires, golfing, playing pool and horseshoes, polka dancing and spending time with his grandkids.  Gene spent several winters in Florida as a snowbird. He had many of his own famous quotes “Just between you, me and the fencepost“, “all shit in the side, will you do me one favor” “hey mon!” and “been there and back.”

Gene is survived by his 2 daughters, Jean Ann Mohney of Wilcox, Deb (Woody) Shaffer of Wilcox, and 1 son, Ron (Deb) Nortum of Tarentum, his long-time partner Jean Ceriani of Brockport, 1 brother, John Nortum (Shirley) of Wesleyville and 1 sister Joyce (Joe) Cherry of Johnsonburg, 9 grandchildren, Ed (Jolene) Murray,  Charlene (Dave) Baumgratz, Michelle (Tim) Good, Dave (Kerri) Shaffer, Scott (Jamie) Shaffer, Lisa (Francie) Cherry, Brandy Nortum, Shannon Nortum, and Aleasha Nortum, 8 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and his beloved dog Sassy.

In addition to his parents, Gene was predeceased by his brothers Robert Nortum, Lawrence Nortum and a sibling in infancy.

A Memorial Service for Gene A. Nortum will be held on Monday, May 15, 2023, at 1:00 PM at Krise Funeral Home, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853, with Rev. Ann Foor officiating.

Family and friends will be received from 12:00 PM until the time of service.

Burial will follow at Wardvale United Methodist Cemetery.

If desired, memorial contributions should be made to the Wilcox Fire Department, PO Box 117 Wilcox, PA 15870.

Krise Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 130 Center Street, Ridgway, PA 15853 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.krisefuneralhome.com