Gene C. Lawrence

Gene C. Lawrence, 75, of Utica, passed away in the comfort of his home on Monday, April 14, 2025. Born in Utica on June 5, 1949, Gene was the son of Gene and Eleanor (Zielinski) Lawrence. He was a graduate of Notre Dame High School and continued his education at Loyola University, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree. On August 3, 1984, Gene married Mary E. Mootz, a blessed union of 40 years. Gene was a probation officer with Oneida County before retirement. Gene was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, whose love for family was the foundation of his life. A former basketball referee and lifelong sports enthusiast, he was also a dedicated runner, including the Boilermaker and marathons, who never lost his passion for the sport. Gene earned a basketball scholarship to Loyola University, where his deep love for the game and tireless work ethic truly stood out. A man of unwavering faith, he was a proud Catholic who rarely missed Mass. His spirituality guided him in every part of his life-on the court, in his community, and in the hearts of those who knew him. Gene is survived by his beloved wife, Mary; children, Andrew (Meghan) Lawrence and Samantha (Dustin) Wurster; grandchildren, Finn and Jack Wurster; siblings, Danny (Christine) Lawrence, Anthony (Sheila) Lawrence and Kathy (Mike) Juliano; in-laws, Sharon (Ken) Palmer, Paul (Emily) Mootz, Dr. John (Kathy) Mootz, Tim Mootz, Kathleen O'Shea, Margaret (Robert) Beck, Steve (Mayte) Mootz, Joseph (Rene) Mootz, and Susan (Chris) Ryan; many nieces, nephews and cousins, including Cathy Bilal and special friends, Greg, Jay, Pat, Mike K., Kevin and Gene A. Relatives and friends are invited and may call Friday, April 18, 2025, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd, Utica. Funeral services will commence following visitation at 5:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Gene's name may be made to the American Heart Association (www.heart.org). Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Messages of sympathy at www.mmknfd.com To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Gene, please visit our Tree Store.