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Gene Campbell
Eugene “Gene” Jackson Campbell, a man of unshakable strength and unwavering love, passed away at the age of 86 on Wednesday February 5, 2025, walking peacefully into the arms of his Savior. Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and cherished friend whose life was a testament to kindness, generosity, and an enduring sense of humor.
Born on June 3, 1938, in Farwell, Gene graduated from Clare High School in 1956. His thirst for knowledge led him to Central Michigan University, where he earned a degree in education, followed by a master’s degree from Michigan State University, and further studies at the University of Michigan. Gene spent 33 years shaping young minds as a teacher at Michigan Center High School, where he taught business and geography. He was a passionate advocate for girls’ sports, serving as the school’s athletic director and coaching several teams, including JV football, JV baseball, girls’ softball, and girls’ gymnastics. Gene’s dedication to education and his students was evident in every facet of his career, and he retired in 1996 with the satisfaction of knowing he made a lasting impact.
On December 21, 1973, Gene married the love of his life, Jane, in Ludington. The couple lived in Michigan Center until 1997 when they made Ludington their home. Their marriage was a true partnership, built on love, laughter, and shared adventures.
Gene was a man of many passions. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, always at home in the great outdoors. His love for travel was boundless, with Gene visiting all 50 states, taking memorable trips to Alaska, cruising through the Panama Canal, and experiencing Europe and New Zealand. Jane and Gene also visited Germany countless times to visit Gene’s daughter Laura and her family. Gene spent six weeks every summer in Suttons Bay with his daughter and family. Gene and Jane spent 20 winters in Florida, often spending quality time with his daughter Cheryl, and exploring different parts of the state and embracing the sunshine.
Family was everything to Gene, and he had a soft spot for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whose company always brought him joy. His infectious giggle and quick wit were a constant source of laughter to all who knew him. Gene’s competitive spirit also showed in his love for card games whether it was cribbage, bridge, or a friendly game with family, he played with enthusiasm and determination.
Gene had a special fondness for mushroom hunting, proudly serving as president of the Ludington Mushroom Club. He was also a passionate sports fan, often found in his favorite recliner, enjoying a game or indulging in a good trivia challenge. In his later years, Gene enjoyed spending his days watching the news and staying up-to-date on current events.
Gene’s faith was central to his life. He was a dedicated member of Michigan Center Bible Church for 20 years, where he coached a church basketball team, and continued his spiritual journey as a member of Cornerstone Baptist Church after relocating to Ludington.
Gene was a man whose heart was full of love, laughter, and generosity. He was strong in spirit, a quick wit, and the kind of person who made everyone around him feel better just by being in his presence. He lived his life according to his values: love, faith, humor, and a fierce dedication to his family and friends. Gene’s legacy will live on in the countless memories he leaves behind, the lessons he taught, and the love he gave.
Gene was preceded in death by his dad, Eugene Campbell; mom, Viola Campbell; and his son, Daniel Urschalitz.
Gene is survived by his wife, Jane Campbell; his children, Sheryl Styer-Ozalynn, Laura (Matthias) Elser, Mike (Nan) Urschalitz, Kim (Paul) Roellig, Sarah (Allen) Judkiewicz; his grandchildren, Carlyle Styer, Magdalena, Zacharias, Matthias Jr, Elijah, and Keziah Elser, Nathan Urschalitz, Lyndsi (Tom) DeVries, Jordan Urschalitz, Morgan (Sam) Kaltz, David (Christina) Roellig, Brittany Roellig, Corrianna (Garrett) Pannier, Daniel & Hannah Judkeiwicz; and his great-grandchildren, Alyssa, Wyatt, and Adelyn Devries, Bentley, Luke, and Ava Urschalitz, Henry and Maddy Roellig, and Winston Pannier.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Cornerstone Baptist Church of Ludington, with visitation beginning at noon at the church.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Cornerstone Baptist Church of Ludington and Hospice of West Michigan.
Arrangements were entrusted to Oak Grove Funeral Home of Ludington, www.OakGroveLudington.com.
