Eugene "Gene" Cortland Aber

1939-2015

Eugene Cortland Aber

Eugene Aber died peacefully on November 4, 2015 after a sudden illness. Gene would have celebrated his 76th birthday on the 29th of Nov. Gene was born in Newark, New Jersey to Eugene and Elizabeth Aber. He was raised in Middlesex County NJ where there were woods, creeks, farm land to explore, and summers “down the shore” to swim in the Atlantic, fish, and “go crabbing” with his cousins. His Scottish heritage entailed many clan gatherings with his large extended family, which included the yearly Scottish Games. Gene attended Woodbridge High School where he forged life-long friendships. He was an excellent athlete and a member of the high school track and football teams. At the age of 17 Gene joined the United States Marine Corp, traveled around the world, and remained a proud Marine in his heart. Gene found his vocation by learning carpentry skills from his father. As a journeyman carpenter, Gene was a member of the Carpenters Union until his retirement in 2006. Gene could, and did, build just about everything, including a power plant in LA, a winery in Napa, innovative additions to his home, and his own private “man-cave”.

Gene moved to LA in 1969, trying on different life-styles that allowed his own unique brand of expression. He loved music, especially country, and was an excellent dancer. He liked to hang out with friends, and as a young man, he loved to ride his Harley. He inherited his mother’s “green thumb” and could grow anything. His gardens were beautiful, filled with vegetables, flowers, and herbs.

Gene found his way to Napa in 1989, looking for a more quiet, safe, and peaceful environment in which to raise his family. He enjoyed the beauty of Napa Valley and the proximity of the Sonoma Coast. Gene worked hard and played hard. He fished, skied, danced, and loved good food and drink. He was an avid cribbage player, and played a fast game of pool.  Gene’s athleticism stayed with him his whole life. He could often be found at the local gym, sometimes along-side his youngest son, working out, lifting weights, swimming. He loved a good physical challenge and was a Gold Medal recipient for the Senior Olympics here in Napa.

Gene found an extended family with the local Elks Lodge. He performed duties of Loyal Knight, Leading Knight, Exalted Ruler, and was the Lodge’s Esquire at the time of his passing. He was generous with his time, and his building skills for several Elk projects. He volunteered for many activities there, including tending bar and leading ceremonies. Gene, in his boots and Stetson, along with hisfiancéBobbie, could often be found on the dance floor; he never did lose his ‘moves’.

Gene is survived by his loving fiancé and long-time companion Bobbie Witten of Napa. Toto, Gene’s wonderful dog and pal, also mourns his passing.

Gene was predeceased by his parents, and cousins Peggy and Sharon. Gene leaves a sorrowful family. He is survived by his daughters Cheryl Anne (Marty) Feydor of Redding,  Kristen Creeger, Woodbridge NJ, Erika Hercek, Woodbridge NJ; his sons Travis, Kyle and Tyler Aber all of Napa; his sister Maureen (Steven)  Boyd; niece Poppy (Michael) Livingston; grandchildren Jennifer, Michael, Erik, Jack, Alyssa; great-grandchildren Sean and Victoria, and great-nephew and niece Henry and Elizabeth; Bobbie’s son David (Kathy) Simmons, their adult children Adam and Judith, and baby Natalie. Gene also leaves behind several Aunts, and numerous cousins.

There will be a US Marine Corp ceremony, as well as a memorial service, at Tulocay Cemetery Chapel on Thursday November 12, at 11:00 a.m. According to Gene’s wishes, his ashes will be scattered in the Pacific near the Sonoma Coast. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.

Condolences to the family may be left at www.tulocaycemetery.org

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