Gene Haas

FARMINGTON, Mo. -- Gene Joseph Haas of Farmington passed away Wednesday, March 8, 2017, at Presbyterian Manor at the age of 82 years.

He was born Jan. 27, 1935, at Cape Girardeau, son of the late Joseph L. and Opal C. Lewis Haas.

Gene grew up in Cape Girardeau and attended school there. He later served his country in the U.S. Naval Reserves from 1953 to 1961.

He attended college at Southeast Missouri State University, earning bachelor's and master's degrees of fine arts.

Gene came to Farmington while still in college to complete his student teaching, and following graduation, he accepted a position as an art instructor with Farmington High School, making Farmington his permanent home.

Gene spent his entire teaching career with the Farmington School District, where he became the head of the art department, worked briefly in administration and coached the golf team.

On July 21, 1979, he was united in marriage to Ilene Botkin, who preceded him in death Dec. 15, 2000.

Gene enjoyed life and was for many years an active member of the Farmington Elks Lodge No. 1765 and the St. Francois Country Club. In his spare time, he enjoyed classic films and photography, but his favorite hobby was spending time on the golf course.

He will be missed by all those who knew and loved him, including his brother, Richard A. Haas of Annapolis, Missouri; a stepdaughter, Cynthia (Tom) Cycyota of Centennial, Colorado; three stepgrandchildren; and two nieces, Becky Haas and Amy Nathan. He also is survived by a large number of dear friends, neighbors and other relatives.

Friends may call from 5 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Cozean Memorial Chapel and Crematory in Farmington.

Per Gene's request, there will be no formal services. Gene will be laid to rest next to his beloved Ilene at Hillview Memorial Gardens.

Memorials, if desired, may be made to the American Heart Association.

Share your memories and leave condolences online at www.cozeanfuneralhome.com.