Eugene C. Brendel Jr. (Gene), 84, of Ocean View, DE passed away on Tuesday, January 9, 2024 while vacationing in Florida.

Gene was born in Bergenfield, NJ on November 7, 1939. He was predeceased by his parents, Eugene C. Brendel, Sr. and Evelyn L. Brendel (née McLaughlin), his niece Brooke Brendel, his brothers in-law, Peter V. Walpole (Maureen), Richard J. Brezosky and his stepson William Francis Morelli.

Gene is survived by his loving wife of 40 years, Kathleen Brendel (née Walpole) and his children. Kristine, Gene III, and Elizabeth, his grandchildren, Timothy, Marlene, Brittani, Austin, Kyle, Cody, Alex, Drew, his great granddaughter, Rowan, his brothers, William R. Brendel (Bonnie) of St. Paul, Minnesota and Thomas A. Brendel (Nancy) of New Port Richie, Florida, his nephews Bill and Tom, his nieces Jackie and Alison as well numerous cousins and great nieces and great nephews.

Gene graduated from Bergenfield High School, Bergenfield NJ in 1957 and from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (Truman University) in 1961. His teaching degree was in Physical Education. Upon graduation from college, Gene taught physical education at Don Bosco Prep. in Ramsey, NJ, Hasbrouck Heights High School in Hasbrouck Heights NJ and Bergenfield High School in Bergenfield, NJ. He coached baseball, basketball and football. He was an active member of the NJ Umpires association and officiated baseball, basketball and volleyball. Gene was a man's man. His passions were fishing and sports. He fished the Indian River daily and he cheered faithfully for his NY Giants and his NY Yankees. He served the town of Ocean View as a member of the CAP Program, Board of Planning and Zoning and the Board of Adjustment. Gene was warm and friendly to all. It was impossible to resist his bright blue eyes and his generous, gentle smile.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 19, 2023 at St Ann Catholic Church, 691 Garfield Parkway, Bethany Beach, 19930.