Gene Paul Whitlinger

Gene Paul Whitlinger, 87, passed away peacefully on Monday January 25, 2021, at St. Elizabeth Mercy Health, Boardman.

He was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. on November 24, 1933, the son of the late W. Eugene and Nell Gagen Whitlinger. He grew up in Apollo, Pa. and graduated from Apollo High School in 1951. While in high school he played varsity football and basketball. Following graduation, he worked in the local steel mills until he was drafted into the army in 1953 during Korean War.

Following active duty from the military, Gene enrolled at Duquesne University where he earned academic honors. He graduated in 1959 and immediately began a working career at General Motors Acceptance Corporation (GMAC) in Pittsburgh, Pa. His employment with GMAC involved frequent relocation along with increased responsibilities with each move. He lived and worked in various cities throughout the United States and Europe during his career. When he retired in 1992, he was executive vice president of world-wide operations for the company. He was a member of the board of directors and the executive committee.

Following retirement Gene and his wife, Loretta, relocated to Boardman, Ohio. He enjoyed golfing, reading, some travel and spending time with good friends. He was a sports fan, especially where the Steelers and Ohio State football were concerned.

Gene was a member of Holy Family Church in Poland.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife, Rose E. Myers Whitlinger whom he married in June 2013, his brother William (Myrna) Whitlinger of Apollo, Pa.; sister Rita Ann Lucas of Lower Burrell, Pa., a sister-in-law Shirley Whitlinger of Apollo, Pa., a stepson Jeffrey (Suzi) of Columbus, Ohio, a stepdaughter Jennifer (Eric Dunn) Myers of Cleveland, Ohio, and 3 grandchildren. He also leaves many nieces and nephews.

Besides his parents Gene was preceded in death by his first wife, Loretta, she died in July 2011; his brother Jack Whitlinger and his brother-in-law James Lucas. Gene was also preceded by his niece Rhonda J. Whitlinger and nephew Michael G. Lucas.

A private funeral mass will be held in Apollo, Pa., and interment at Riverview Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home 4700 Market St. Boardman, Ohio.

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