Eugene "Gene" Allen Oliver

Eugene "Gene" A. Oliver, 85 of Versailles, Ohio, passed away peacefully, with his wife by his side, on Friday, June 21, 2019 at the Brethren Retirement Community in Greenville.

He was born on January 4, 1934 in Ansonia, Ohio to the late Orlan E. and Dorothy (Schilling) Oliver.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his brother, Jerry Oliver.

Gene was a 1951 graduate of Versailles High School. After graduation, he returned to his family's business, Oliver Nursery. Until their retirement, Gene and his wife dedicated their lives to the success of the nursery. Over the years, Gene employed countless high school-aged boys to assist at the nursery. During the winters, Gene would drive truck and would haul just about anything.

He was a loyal Versailles Tiger fan, rarely missing a game. He could always be found in the stands supporting the Tigers. In his free time, Gene loved spending time outdoors. He could be found fishing in his two ponds, catching bluegill. Gene enjoyed camping and spending time at his cabin in the woods. His passion for the outdoors allowed him to help with the Versailles Cub Scouts, Pack 79 for many years. Gene was an avid traveler and would spend many winters after his retirement in Texas. He was a diehard Trump fan and was known for this Trump car stickers. He was known as "Papaw Gene" to many and enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was known to fix up old garden tractors for his grandchildren to ride around the homestead. Gene had a passion for woodworking. He would build anything that he could and many of his creations would be auctioned off at the annual Versailles High School Athletic Boosters Banquet. Gene was a faithful follower of Christ and a member of the Friedens Lutheran Church in Bloomer, Ohio. Gene's legacy and sense of humor will be missed.

Gene is survived by his wife of 65 years, Janice (Hendrickson) Oliver, whom he married on June 5, 1954; his children and their spouses, Jeff and Kate Oliver of Cosby, Tennessee, Joann and Greg Maltinsky of Minster, Ohio, and Jill and Brian Dean of Beavercreek, Ohio; his many grand and great-grandchildren; his brother and his wife, David and Joann Oliver of Florida; his sister-in-law, Phyllis Oliver of Versailles; and his special niece, Linda Deeter of Greenville and many other nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Gene's life will take place at 4:00 PM on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at Tribute Funeral Homes, Greenville Campus with Pastor Bob Akins officiating.

Guests may visit with Gene's family from 2:00 PM until the time of service at the funeral home.

Per the family's request, please do not wear black. Wear bright colors to help celebrate Gene's life!

Memorial contributions be given in memory of Gene to the Versailles High School Athletic Boosters, 280 Marker Road, Versailles, Ohio 45380

Due to the Broadway Street construction project, please feel free to contact the funeral home for suggested travel routes. More information may be found at our website or by calling us at 937-548-1133.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tributefuneralhomes.com