Gene Albert Eiden

Mr. Eiden made band fun for me. He genuinely cared about each of his students. I remember playing in the pep band at the football and basketball games. He kept the bar high for all of his students. He is one of the reasons I decided to become a teacher. All of the lessons he taught me along the way I have tried to pass on to my students.

Rest in peace.

Mollie Trusty (Kelley)

Mr. Eiden was typically very kind to us LHS students and band members, even those of us who had a habit of doing our homework during band practice. Mr Eiden's death is a significant loss for the Rochester community, as well as his family. RIP Mr. Eiden.

Gene was fair and square. He broadened my musical horizons from alto sax to tenor and bari, and then to percussion when the marching band needed drums more than saxes. For most of my Lourdes experience, I was in four of the groups Gene conducted, including the dance band. Thanks to Gene, I was given a gift because the Mayo Clinic Notochords needed a bari sax player, and he recommended me. One of my favorites during my years at Lourdes. A great human being.

I was so sorry to hear about Mr. Eiden passing away. He lived a very happy, fulfilled and musical life. He made a huge difference in the life of so many Lourdes students. I graduated in 1961 and enjoyed all of the interactions we had with Mr. Eiden. May he rest in peace in Heaven. Darlene (Fritsch) Holmes.

Mr. Eiden was one of the kindest men I ever met! For us students at Lourdes High School in the late 60's, he shared his love of music with boundless energy, patience and enthusiasm. Always encouraging and uplifting, he was a "favorite teacher" and beloved human being!

We moved to Rochester in 1989 and Gene was one of the first people I had contact with. As a fellow trumpet player, Gene put me on his list. Because of Gene's kindness I was frequently getting calls to be involved in music in Rochester. Some of the groups I currently am a member of today, Gene was the one who told them about me. Due to his kindness, I have many friends and positive memories. It is hard to imagine how much different my life in Rochester would have been if it had not been for Gene's kindness.

I always enjoyed sidewalk talks with Gene and Fran after daily Mass at Pax Christi Church. So many memories and so many laughs. Gene was always joking and laughing. We've know the Eiden's for decades. I'll miss our visits.
Connie