Eugene "Gene" Klosner

ILION – Eugene “Gene” Klosner, of Ilion, New York, beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher and coach, passed away on the evening of July 8, 2024, at the Wynn Hospital, in Utica, New York. He was 82 years old.

Gene was born on July 31, 1941, in Lowville, New York, the son of the late Lawrence B. and Dora Hoffman Klosner. He graduated from Lowville Academy, in 1959 and went on to attend college at the State University of New York, at Canton and the University of Georgia. Gene was an outstanding collegiate athlete, notably winning first place in the Southeastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Championship, in 1967.

For many years, Gene was employed as a science teacher, at Ilion Central Schools, where he also made significant contributions as a coach for football, track and wrestling. His dedication to education and sports left a lasting impact on countless students and athletes.

On November 23, 1967, Gene married the love of his life, Dale (Rhone) Klosner, at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, in Lowville. Together, they enjoyed a fulfilling marriage of 56 years, building a beautiful family and creating many cherished memories.

Gene was a devoted parishioner at Annunciation Catholic Church, in Ilion, New York, where he was an active member for many years. He was particularly fond of spending time with his many grandchildren, finding great joy and fulfillment in their company. An avid outdoorsman, Gene loved camping in the Adirondacks and had a deep affection for his many dogs over the years.

Gene is survived by his beloved wife, Dale (Rhone) Klosner, of Ilion; and their four children: Philip, of Ilion, Scott and his wife, Jasmine, of Ilion, Ammie Marrero, of Whitesboro, NY and Jonathan and his wife, Kelly, of Aldie, VA. He is also survived by his siblings: David and Christine Klosner, of Geneseo, Shirley and Woodrow Myers, of North Carolina, Mary and John Youngs, of Syracuse, Linda and Steve Formichella, of Syracuse, Christine and Robert Marti, of Indiana and Jane and Michael Zurlo, of Saratoga. Additionally, Gene is survived by his sister-in-law, Gail Klosner, of Glenfield; his brother-in-law, Mark Hanno, of Lowville; several nieces, nephews and cousins; as well as his 15 grandchildren: PJ, Kris, Matthew, Joshua, Padraig, Alexander, Adam, Anderson, Isaac, Derrick, Dominic, Judah, Ryland, Ava and Carter; and one great-grandson, Maverick.

Gene is predeceased by his two sisters, Carol Hanno and Barbara Williams; and four brothers, Robert, Lawrence, Daniel, and Peter Klosner.

Relatives are invited to attend the Funeral Service, on Friday, July 12, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., at the Annunciation Catholic Church, in Ilion, New York, where his Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. There are no calling hours, and private Interment Services at Armory Hill Cemetery will be at the family’s convenience.

To honor and remember Gene’s life, in lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to Annunciation Church, in Ilion, New York, or to a charity of one’s choice.

Gene’s legacy of love, dedication and passion for his family and community will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

It is the greatest honor of the Enea & Ciaccia Family Funeral Home, 4309 Acme Road, in Ilion, New York to help the family with Gene’s arrangements at this difficult time.