Gene C. Taormina

November 26, 1951 – April 23, 2023

Mr. Gene C. Taormina “Gene” was born in Long Island New York to his Dad & Mom: Salvatore and Gloria Taormina. Growing up, he shared memories with his brother, Robert, in the family home.

In his early twenties, Gene left New York to embark upon his eventual career journey to continue pursuing his passion in the automotive industry, which was initially sparked during his time in New York. In doing so, he worked hard and excelled in the Auto Body-Shop profession. Gene not only worked at, but also managed multiple body shops at multiple establishments and companies in many locations throughout the United States. His sound business acumen and professional ethics led to him being voted the best Insurance Adjuster for the entire United States in 1987.

Wherever he worked, and with whomever he worked, Gene has always been noted to be a “no-nonsense” technical professional who gave maximum effort every day. He also took great pride in serving as a mentor to junior employees who were attempting to progress to greater heights in the industry.

Additionally, for several years, Gene performed as a “high-speed” race car driver, and he earned many awards for his performances and sportsmanship.

Unfortunately, injuries influenced his decision to discontinue his active racing pursuits, but that did not stop him from remaining an active fan of racing. Being a NASCAR Enthusiast, he loved Ford

Mustangs; and he owned at least seven of them, including three Mustang Cobras and four 5-litre Mustang products.

He also was a Budweiser beer fan, and he would rarely, if ever, be seen drinking any beer other than his beloved “BUD.”

On Labor Day 1981, Gene met his life’s partner, Jack Minetti. They were together from that day until Gene took his final breath. They were “unofficially” married in 1983 and have been together since that time. As a union, Gene and Jack built and sustained three homes, raised twelve pure-bred Huskies, and overcame many societal obstacles to achieve happiness together. Their final domicile was in Goodyear, Arizona, which is the home where Gene transitioned with Jack by his side. He will be sorely missed by the friends and colleagues who loved him dearly.

To Those I Love

When I am gone, release me, let me go.

You musn’t tie yourself to me with tears.

Just be happy that we had so many years.

I gave you my love, you can only guess,

How much you gave to me in happiness.

I thank you for the love you each have shown,

But now it’s time I traveled alone.

So grieve a while for me, if grieve you must,

Then let your grief be comforted by trust.

It’s only for a while that we must part,

So bless the memories within your heart.

I won’t be far away, for life goes on,

So if you need me, call, and I will come.

Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near.

And if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear

All of my love around you, soft and clear.

And then, when you must come this way alone,

I’ll greet you with a smile, and say

“Welcome Home.”