We are raising funds for St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church in honor of Gene Reuter.
Gene Reuter, 93, passed away on May 30, 2025, at his home—after going to work that very morning, something he truly loved. If he wasn’t working, he wouldn’t be happy.
Born on November 3, 1931, in Hobart, Indiana, Gene spent the early part of his life in the greater Chicago area. One of the things he was most proud of was his service to his country. At the age of 14, he found a way to enlist in the Army Air Force division—perhaps with a little creative truth-telling.
In 1977, he moved to Florida with his wife and daughter. As the entrepreneur he was, he purchased a small alignment shop and opened his own business on December 1, 1977. In 1983, through much dedication and hard work, he built a 14-bay facility on Kennesaw Street. He served the greater Fort Myers area for over 48 years.
Gene was a body technician by trade and loved working on cars. He had a natural talent for fixing just about anything he got his hands on.
After the passing of his beloved wife, Gloria—whom he missed dearly every day—he came to live with his daughter and son-in-law. Gene was one of nine children born into the Reuter family and was the last surviving sibling.
He is survived by his sister-in-law, Wilhelmina “Willy” Reuter; three sons and one daughter: Kim (Deborah) Martin, Ricky (Rose) Martin, Misty (Ricky) Ireland, and the late Kerry Martin.
He also leaves behind ten grandchildren:
Billy (Laura) Johnson, Tisha Johnson, Kristy Martin, Kevin (Lindsey) Martin, Myles Lampman, Racheal (Joe) Maneri, Jennifer (Chaz) Howard, Joshua (Mackenzie) Lampman, Zachary (Grant) Rosensteel, and the late Alissa Martin.
His legacy continues through 14 great-grandchildren:
Nathan Lusk, Alexxis Jimenez, Jacobb Lusk, Nevaeh Maneri, Spencer Hamilton, Gabriella
Johnson, Lilly Hamilton, Griffin Lampman, Max Martin, Annabella Ireland-Maneri, Avery Martin, Savannah Howard, and Cheyanne Howard.
He also leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he adored.
Gene was known for his kindness—especially toward children. He was generous, honest, and deeply hard working—always ready to help anyone in need.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to this fundraiser account, in his memory, for St. Cecilia Catholic Church.