Gene William Southard

Gene William Southard (1957-2022)

Grief is not about forgetting; it's about remembering with gratitude.-Rachel Naomi Remen

Gene Southard, 65, of Canon City, Colorado died Thursday July 7, 2022 at home. He courageously climbed his final mountain with wife Jayne by his side.

He was born February 4, 1957 in Cedar Falls, Iowa son to Delmar and Rella (Saltzman) Southard. He married Jayne Vanderlan on July 29, 1978 in Waterloo, Iowa. Gene moved to Longmont, Colorado in 1977, and Jayne soon joined him. They moved to Loveland, Colorado in 1983 where they established their careers, enjoyed raising their children, and welcomed their grandchildren while living in and exploring this beautiful state. Gene embraced his new role as Papa.

He is survived by his wife Jayne, of Canon City, Colorado. Son Jesse (Jenni) Southard and grandchildren Cameron, Elijah, Norah, Ruby, and Oliver of Eaton, Colorado. Daughter Lindsey (Lucas) Brown and grandchildren Evangeline and Quinton of Loveland, Colorado. His mother Rella Southard of Cedar Falls, Iowa. Three sisters, Diane Searcy of Spring Hill, Florida, Marilyn (Dennis Larsen) Southard of Decorah, Iowa, and Marsha Kloster of Waterloo, Iowa as well as many special nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Delmar Southard, brother, Gary Southard, and sister in law, Jean Ann Southard.

Gene established his business, The Woodworks, in 1981 in Longmont, Colorado. His business card had the scripture "If any man be in Christ, he is a new creation, old things have passed away, behold all things become new." 2 Corinthians 5:17. His faith became his anchor. This new life and becoming a father resulted in his desire to work at home, so he could be present and watch his children grow up. He could be found in his workshop listening to all types of music (loudly) and designing and building mission furniture which he specialized in, or restoring antiques to a new beauty. Many homes have multiple pieces of Gene's furniture in them. He was respected for his talent, integrity, and reliability. Gene and Jayne moved to Canon City in 2018 to enjoy the new playground the south had to offer. He continued operating his business until July of 2021.

Gene faced the final 2 years of his life journey battling cancer with courage, steadiness, and faith trusting there was an awesome adventure awaiting him ahead.  ... "The mountains are calling, and I must go..." John Muir.

Per Gene's request there were no services held. If you wish to make a donation in his memory, please do so to your community food bank. Please disregard the standard flower request at the bottom of this page.

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