Chief Gene L. Campbell

He passed away April 10, 2022 at the mighty age of 91. He was born in Atwater, Ohio on June 6, 1930. He was predeceased by his parents Colin and Dee Campbell and two brothers, Glenn and Garth. He is survived by the love of his life, Dorothy “Joan” (Berlin). They shared over 68 years of marriage. It was a lifetime of love that many admired. He loved his Joan more than life itself. He leaves to cherish, and follow his kind-hearted example, their five kids: fondly known as “The Crew” - Skip, Corky, Kim, Tom and Dori. He also leaves seven grandkids: Michael, Chad, Jake, Karissa, Ashlee, Jacob and Zack, together with six great-grandchildren: Taylor, Melody, Ceara, Kori, Ace and Vivienne. The pride he felt for each one was strongly expressed and felt. Their individual accomplishments brought him a sense of both pride and happiness. Dad joined the US Navy the day after graduating from the Howard Trade School in Akron where he studied to be a machinist. His Navy career took him all over the world, to include Europe, the North Pole, Australia and the Far East. He retired with the rank of Chief Petty Officer after 20 years of service. After his Navy retirement he worked as a Production Senior Planner for Babcock & Wilcox in Barberton for 20 years, retiring a second time in 1987. Dad had an authoritative stature with a huge, kind heart which led to his nickname of the “Crusty Marshmallow”; which brought out his well-known grin. He was also known as the “Eveready Bunny” - always busy, never wanting to sit. He volunteered his time for 20+ years with both Boy Scout Troup 110 in Barberton as well as Camp Quality - helping kids with cancer. He and Joan also offered much of their time to the USO in Barberton/Akron - as he said, “helping the troops”. The swimming pool in their backyard was used for three generations - teaching anyone who wanted, how to swim. Dad and Mom never turned away kids that would come riding down the driveway on their bikes, with towels wrapped around their necks, claiming “It sure is hot outside!” Parties of all kinds took place at the pool. Dad also installed lights for night time swimming; where curfews were set and strictly enforced and he had a penalty bench in place for those not following his “Pool Rules”. Many, many memories were made at the pool. Dad loved the open road so after retiring they bought a motor home and traveled near and far; visiting their many friends and family all over the U.S. His love for the outdoors also carried over into his regular bike rides through the Towpath Trail with his brother Garry. Dad also looked forward to his regular Tuesday morning “Breakfast with the Guys” at the Century House in Canal Fulton – a tradition lasting over 15+ years. Dad had a love of building and creating things to help, give and fix things where needed. If he couldn’t fix it, Duct tape was his answer. Nevertheless, it was always personally guaranteed not to rust, bust or collect dust. He built a unique workshop next to his garage which Mom his second home; complete with a window, A/C and a TV. He also set up a way to communicate with her from his workshop to the house. He was an avid woodworker - making flag cases, children's toys, and yard ornaments along with various other projects. You were sure to get a hand-made wooden nameplate if he met you - with or without the asking. Our stories are and will continue to be endless. He lived 91 years of a life packed full of them. A Military gravesite ceremony in his honor will take place April 26th at 1:30 “SHARP” as Dad would say, at the Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Seville, OH for all those able to attend. Those not able to attend may send their condolences to 3343 Minuet Dr, New Franklin, OH 44216.

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