Gene Charles Morgenstern was born December 28, 1945 in Los Angeles, CA and was raised in Modesto, CA.
The beloved father, grandfather, and friend passed away peacefully with family by his side, February 8, 2023 in Modesto, Ca. He was 77 years old.
In his professional life, Gene spent a large majority of his career in the Insurance and Financial Services field. He enjoyed networking and socializing with various Rotary and community groups and clubs. He would make many lasting friendships this way.
Gene spent much time hunting and fishing as a boy, raised by an avid outdoorsman. He enlisted in the United States Navy out of high school in 1963, and served 2 years in the Vietnam War. In his later years, he enjoyed sharing proud moments from his time in service, and fun stories with his kids and grandkids. He spoke fondly of time spent in San Diego and various travels with the Navy.
Mutual friends had arranged a blind date for Gene to meet Gloria H. Benson. After dating for approximately a year and a half, they married on Dec. 17, 1977 in Modesto. Gloria brought with her 2 small children, Laurel and Daniel, from a previous marriage. Gene raised them and loved him like his own. The new little family would also welcome a baby girl, Cara, in 1979. Gene and Gloria were just one month shy of celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary, when Gloria passed in 2016. The greatest joy they shared in their lives together was doting on their 3 grandchildren, Leah, Maci and Bowen Raby. In 2019 the grandchild count grew to 4, when Abigail Trindade was born.
Gene is survived by his 3 children, Laurel Trindade-Schamber of Galt, Ca, Daniel (Kiko) Trindade of Qingdao, China, and Cara Raby, (Ben) of Modesto, Ca.
He is also survived by his 4 grandchildren, who were the light of his life; Leah, Maci, and Bowen Raby of Modesto, Ca, and Abigail Trindade of Qingdao, China. They were his pride and joy, and he loved sharing in their academic and athletic accomplishments. His love and laughter will be so dearly missed.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Margaret Morgenstern of Modesto, Ca, as well as his 2 brothers, Ross Morgenstern of Modesto, Ca, and Bill Johansen of Oregon.
Gene will be laid to rest Tues. February 21, 1:30pm, at San Joaquin Valley National Cemetery, 32053 McCabe Rd, Santa Nella, Ca, 95322.
A small gathering to celebrate Gene will take place following the services (at approximately 4pm) at Divine Swine Bar and Grill, 825 W. Roseburg Ave, in Modesto, Ca. Hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
Friends and family are welcome to attend both events.
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