Eugene Henry Rother

November 24, 1940 ~ April 4, 2020

Eugene "Gene" Henry Rother passed away on April 4, 2020 of natural causes. He will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend.

Born to Henry and Irene Rother on November 24, 1940 he lived his entire life in Redding CA. He was an only child, but grew up with his first cousin, Henry Krantz, as brothers. They spent a youth full of hard work, hunting and fishing. He graduated from Shasta High School in 1958 and went on to Shasta College where he met his soon-to-be wife, Donna, and they were married on August 20, 1960.

They continued their education at Chico State University, before moving back to Redding in 1962 and founding Rother Heavy Equipment Rentals. During his years of real estate development he befriended L.V. Butcher, and what began as a contractor’s license for paving became a general contractor’s license. Projects included the excavation and development of the Civic Auditorium grounds and subdivisions such as the Country Squire Estates. He also notably built and owned the Country Club Shopping Center.

Gene was a talented musician, and for over 20 years he played music with his band, The Alley Cats. He also played with the Night Hawks and the Shasta College Community Jazz Band. In his 40s, he was involved in the Shasta Cascade Riders. In his 50s he earned his piloting license, and worked with the Shasta County Search and Rescue. He was also an avid hunter and fisherman, and those who knew him have fond memories of adventures with Gene.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Rother, daughter Jennifer Harmon (George), son James Rother, daughter Suzanne Scott (Marc), son Paul Rother (Julie), five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Gene was a generous person and could always be found helping family, friends, and neighbors. An ever-generous soul, Gene enjoyed mentoring young people and assisting the elderly, and was always found available for advice and hands-on help. Holidays were spent in merry delight, from riddle-filled Easter egg hunts to hand crafted games on Christmas Eve. His artistry, humor, and joy for life and those around him was apparent in all he made. His memory will be forever treasured by those who knew him.

Due the current conditions we live in there will be no services at this time.