Gene Lyman Jessup

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of Gene Lyman Jessup (October 25, 1937 - April 22, 2025), a loving husband, father, and Grandfather.

Born in Wenatchee to Wilson and June (Leonard) Jessup. Moving around a bit, Wenatchee became their home, completing school in the valley. Having a passion for football he played for WHS after graduating Wenatchee High School in 1955, he was named outstanding football center for the Wenatchee Panthers and then selected for all American center for Wenatchee Valley Knights College. In the summers Gene and Brother Gerry, his best friend, worked for the Okanogan smoke jumpers. Loving every moment, making many life time friends along the way. Recently he wrote a book Smokejumpers memories.

Gene then went on to start a family, having 5 children. Stacey, Leslie, Cole, Jason and Matt with his then wife Janice Smith.

Through the years Gene had many passions, coaching youth football, hunting, fishing and hobbies, tending the farm wasn't anything he could not do or build. After a few career changes settled into a Fieldman position with Northern Fruit until the early 90's.

Later on, went back to University Of Montana (Grizz) earning his degree in drug and alcohol counseling starting his own agency Quality Resources changing lives for the next 19 years.

Many years earlier continuing his dreams meeting his love and life long fishing buddy Wife LaNita Jessup continuing the remaining part of his journey making more memories he loved with her and family. He was an avid fisher (boy he could hookem). Gene enjoyed the outdoors, writing his books and sharing them, making friends with everyone, hehad understanding, knowledge and a zest of humor. His Smoke Jumper Memories would always come full circle (He loved this).

During his recent book writing Gene found our Lord Savior and loved to illustrate that in his books he wrote. When Gene was passionate, he was capable of anything and was flambayonet in so.

Gene is survived by his Wife, LaNita Jessup., paternal children Stacy (Tim), Jagla, Lesie (Ashley) Hogan. Cole and Maylen Jessup, Jason and Dawn Jessup, Matthew and Jillian Jessup. Maternal Children, Thomas and Maira Williams, Michel and Nancy Williams, Simone (Mike) Hagge. Grandchildren., Paton, Caren, Ross, Mike, Jordan, Maya, Tiago, Caleb, Boog, Miela, Rose and Romi as well as his sister in-law Bobbie Jessup, and many other loved ones. Until we meet again Fish On!

Please join us June 7th, 2025 at the Wenatchee Senior Center to Celebrate Gene's life and share stories at 1PM. Food and refreshments will be available.

In Lieu of flowers the family requests that you make donations to the Wenatchee Valley Senior Center and Lily of the Valley.