Eugene "Gene" Dennis Horner
July 23, 1935 ~ November 16, 2021
Born in:
Waterloo, IA
Resided in:
Mills River, NC
Eugene “Gene” Dennis Horner of Mills River, North Carolina passed away on Tuesday, November 16, 2021, at the age of 86. Gene died peacefully at Elizabeth House Hospice with his beloved wife Joanne by his side.
Gene was born in Waterloo, Iowa on July 23, 1935, to father Merle Horner and mother Maude (Gould) Horner. One of six siblings being raised by his single mother, Gene enlisted in the Army at the age of 17 and served in Germany with the 6th Infantry Division rising to the rank of Corporal. Upon returning to Waterloo, he soon met the love of his life, Joanne Hicok, and within months they married and enjoyed 65 years together raising two sons: Steven and Terry. Gene graduated in 1960 from Iowa State Teachers College (now the University of Northern Iowa) and then began his career at State Farm Insurance. Gene and family lived throughout Iowa and eventually landed in Lincoln, NE where he retired after 38 years as a Divisional Claim Superintendent. He was beloved by all and many considered him a second father. Especially the men and women he mentored during his career with State Farm. “Geno” loved sitting around the kitchen table, having a cocktail and talking and laughing “shop” with State Farm buddies and, in retirement, with his friends and neighbors at the High Vista Country Club in Mills River.
Gene was an avid volunteer throughout his life and devoted his time to the Sunrise Kiwanis Club and Junior Achievement in Lincoln, NE, the Gyros Club in Bettendorf, Iowa, University of Northern Iowa Alumni Association and in retirement he was an avid supporter and volunteer for the Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity. He was also especially proud of being an American Legion member for over 50 years. He loved the outdoors and enjoyed skiing, hunting and fishing, especially over 25 legendary fishing trips to Canada.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents and by siblings; James Horner, Richard Horner, Robert Horner, Sandy Webrand and Betty Bruns. He is survived by his wife Joanne Elaine Horner: oldest son Steven Eugene Horner and his wife Beth of Independence, MN and youngest son Terry Duane Horner of Asheville, NC. He was also a devoted and doting grandfather to Cole, Mitchell, Charlie and Paige. He will be missed by all.
Groce Funeral Home’s Lake Julian team is assisting the family.
View current weather.
Memories Timeline
Guestbook
Sign the Guestbook, Light a Candle
Joanne and family—we had learned of Gene’s passing a couple of weeks ago, and our deepest sympathies to all of you. Gene and I (and you and I) never worked in the same departments at State Farm in Lincoln, but both of you were known to most employees. You both touched many lives, and we all feel the void with Gene’s passing. We have many great memories, and I’m sure you and your family do too. May these memories help sustain you and your family in this time of grief.
Joanne, Steve and Terry. I just got the copy of the Obituary and a place to express out deepest sympathy to you all. Gene was such an important part of my young career and all the friendship and guidance you and Gene showed Susie and I. Then your favorite Ferguson, Joanne, came along and The kindness and love you showed for our Jon will always be remembered. Gene would be so proud of the successful agent he has become and his part in his beginning at State Farm. We Love you and miss you and wish you all the best. Lost my Mother in June at age 96 and my sister age 72 in April, she just fell over at her kitchen sink. We miss them every day too. If you ever get back this way please stop we would love to see you.
Oh Terry, I am so sorry to hear of this news. My thoughts are with you and your entire family. Godspeed, my friend.