Gene LeRoy Stithem passed away Friday, June 20, 2025. He was born May 31, 1941, in Zurich, Kansas, to Clifford A. and Bessie Rosalie (Smee) Stithem, and was the third of five children. He graduated from Palco High School in 1959 and Brown Mackie School of Business in Salina in 1960. On May 6, 1961, he married R. Elaine Stoppel, who preceded him in death, along with his parents and brothers Ronald and Gerald.

Gene is survived by his wife Rejeana, a son Terry, brother Jack, sister Reta (Charlie) Cain. Stepson Kenny, Stepdaughters Karlena, Brook (Michael) Train and Katie Miller. Step grandchildren Jess Meyer, Jamie (Chelsie) Meyer, six step great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

He served in the Army Reserve (425th TC) in Salina from 1965 to 1971, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant (E6).

Gene worked as an office manager at Gamble Robinson for five years, briefly as a state auditor, and then at the U.S. Post Office in Salina, retiring in 1997 as an accounting technician. A self-taught programmer, he developed time-saving programs, one of which was adopted by two other sectional center post offices.

A talented musician, Gene played guitar and bass in two country bands for about 13 years and managed the Salina Association of Pickers’ monthly music jam, which drew up to thirty musicians and many listeners.

He enjoyed summer league softball, was a fan of the Kansas City Royals, and loved riding his motorcycle, touring several states with friends.

Visitation will be 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, June 25, at Ryan Mortuary, Salina.

Family suggests memorials to the National Kidney Foundation.