Willis E. “Gene” Fry, 76, died on Friday, March 16, 2018 at 8:23 a.m. at Memorial Gables in Marysville.

He was born on Sept. 19, 1941, in Lima, Ohio to the late Robert L. and Jane E. (Newland) Fry.  On Sept. 19, 1960, Gene married Charolette A. Austin and she survives in McGuffey.

Gene retired from General Dynamics where he worked as a welder.  He was a member of the McGuffey Freewill Baptist Church. Gene was the former mayor of McGuffey and formerly served as a fireman and police officer for McGuffey. He dedicated his life to his family and was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.  He was loved by all who knew him.

Also surviving is a son, Matthew (Amy) Fry of McGuffey; three daughters: Robin Harsh of Ada, Susanne (Barry) Bolen of Alger and Sherri Harrell of McGuffey; 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his daughter Gina L. Fry on Dec. 2, 1988; and his brother, Ronald L. Fry and sister, Lucille Bailey.

Funeral services will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 21, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Alger with Rev. David Trusty officiating.  Burial will be in Preston Cemetery, Alger.

          Friends may call from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 20, at Hanson-Neely Funeral Home, Alger and until time of service at the funeral home on Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.