Charles E. “Gene” Willis

Charles E. “Gene” Willis, 89, of Strasburg, passed away on Friday, April 10, 2026, in the Hennis Care Centre at Bolivar.

He was born on August 30, 1936, in Bethesda, Ohio, a son of the late Charles A. and Doris Rogers Willis. Gene was preceded in death by his brothers, Jim and Terry Willis; his sister, Judy Bauman; his great-grandson, Colson Karl; two infant grandsons; and his daughter-in-law, Sue Young.

He retired in 1998 from the Timken Company in Canton after 30 years of service.

Gene enjoyed collecting as a hobby. He never met a stranger and was known for being very outgoing. He loved spending time with his family, especially following his grandchildren in their sporting and school activities.

He is survived by his wife of almost 68 years, Vivian Reiger Willis, whom he married on April 12, 1958; his children, Deb (Ron) Kulick, Mark Willis, and Kelly (Chad) Kanouff, all of Strasburg; his sister, Marlene (Tom) Garber of North Canton; his brother, Sam (Donna) Willis of Strasburg; his sisters in law, Vivian Willis of Strasburg, Susan Willis of Dover; grandchildren, Justin (Kayla) Hite, Jarrod Hite, Jess (Dustin) Karl, Nathan (Rachelle) Kanouff, Colin (Kaitlynn) Kanouff, Kyle (Courtney) Kanouff, and Coy (Kaitlyn) Kanouff; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Private graveside services will be held. The Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Strasburg is handling arrangements.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 408 Ninth St. SW, Suite 3400, Canton, Ohio 44707.