It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene “Gene” Tchir, on Sunday, October 2, 2022, at the age of 86 years.

Gene was born in Lamont, on July 24, 1936, and grew up in Redwater. He completed a year of Engineering at the University of Alberta before meeting his wife, Anne on a blind date in 1957. Gene and Anne were married in 1958, then lived in Lodgepole and Drayton Valley before settling in Edmonton to raise their family. Gene had many occupations - he worked at Pembina Pipeline, then as a purchasing agent for Kruger Plumbing. He later became part owner of Antron Heating and then went back to school at night to become an optician. He worked alongside his uncle in the optical business until Gene retired in 1989.

Gene had a passion for nature and the outdoors. He loved his garden, the mountains, fishing, and camping trips with his family to Jasper. Perch Cove at Skeleton Lake was an incredibly special place for him and his family. The lake brought together his immediate and extended family members for many joyous occasions. Gene and Anne also created countless family memories at the lake and their home in Capilano.

Left to cherish Gene’s memory are his loving wife, Anne; his children, Lori (Butch), Lynn (Brian), Shelly (Mike) and Rick (Tammy); grandchildren, Thomas (Madison), Celeste (Miles), Zach (Nella), Brett (Robin), McKensy (Brandon), Devan (Andrea), Hunter (Leela) and Kyle (Chelsea); step-grandchild, Fraser; great-grandchildren, Freya, Aubrey and Sophie; sister, Annette; sister-in-law, Sharon; as well as his niece and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents, Peter and Margaret; brother, Ernie; and brother-in-law, Bill.

A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at 11 a.m. at St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 9507 Austin O’Brien Road, Edmonton. A private family inurnment will follow at Glenwood Memorial Gardens in Sherwood Park.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Eugene’s honour may be made to St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church, 9507 Austin O’Brien Road, Edmonton, Alberta T6B 2C1.

The family gratefully acknowledges the many acts and words of kindness shared during this difficult time.