Gene Gossman

Gene Leslie Gossman, born on December 11, 1953, in Decorah, Iowa, and resident of Ilwaco, Washington, for the past three years, has left us to tend to gardens in the sky on July 17, 2025. Known for his captivating stories told around the campfire and his love for nature, Gene brought joy and warmth to those around him. As William Shakespeare once said, "One touch of nature makes the whole world kin," and in his own special way, Gene made everyone feel like kin.
Gene was a dedicated gardener, drawing great joy from watching his plants flourish. He was also an enthusiastic e-bicyclist, often seen zooming around town with a smile on his face. His passion for reminiscing and puttering were a testament to his love for life and its many simple pleasures. He was a published poet, his words evoking the same beauty and tranquility he sought in his beloved garden. Gene was active in 4-H during his youth, and had a fulfilling career in the electronics field before retiring in 2010. Throughout his life, he also managed an apartment complex and worked as a handyman, helping friends and organizations with his many skills.
Above all else, Gene cherished his family, sharing stories, laughter, and wisdom. He is survived by his mother, Ethel Holt; his siblings Rebecca Christiansen (William), Terry Gossman (Debbie), Nancy Schwenke (Dave), and Penny Johnson; his many nieces and nephews his ex-wife Sharon Gossman. He is preceded in death by his father, Donald Gossman. Maya Angelou once said, "I sustain myself with the love of family," and this quote perfectly encapsulates Gene's life. His family sustained him, and he, in return, enriched their lives with his love, wisdom, and the joy he found in the world around him.
We invite everyone who knew Gene to visit his memorial page, where you can share your memories of him and upload photos. Each memory shared will help keep Gene's spirit alive and allow us to celebrate the remarkable man he was. Indeed, in the words of Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." Let's remember Gene with smiles, laughter, and fond memories, just as he would have wanted.