Worcester - Eugene F. "Gene" McNichol, 85, of Worcester, passed away Thursday, May 11, 2006 at his residence.

He was born in Haverstraw, NY on February 24, 1921 to Edward and May (Cook) McNichol. He was the second of five sons, who all served in the service during World War II.

He leaves behind his wife and best friend, Helen who he married June 12, 1954 in Queens, NY. He will be missed by their 4 children and their spouses, Gene and Judith from Parma, Ohio, Andrew and Robin, Karen and Ronnie Althiser and Aileen and Edward Head, all of Worcester. He was the proud grandpa to 8 grandchildren, Matthew (Meagan) and Adam McNichol, James "Gig", Katye (Chris) Goodrich, Jessica (Jim) Gaske, Stacey (Eddie) Serdy, Mark (Jessica) and Kevin Head. Loving great grandpa to Dillon and Kailyn Gaske, Anna and Emma Serdy and Eydie McNichol.

His love of family only compared to his love of music, playing instruments, writing, reading and listening to his extended collections of records, tapes, C.D.'s and books. When Gene was home there was always music playing.

Before moving to Worcester in 1967 he worked as a licensed funeral director for Leo F. Kearns Funeral Home in Ozone Park, NY. After which he often helped Andy Skinner and Frank Heller with their funeral homes. He retired in 1983 from his job as a accountant for Camp Summit and 1989 from Otsego County Coroner.

Gene was very active in local organizations until poor health slowed him down. These include the Knights of Columbus; president of the Rotary Club including hosting exchange students for 3 years; president of Worcester Free Library; member and pass commander of the Worcester American Legion; forming a girls color guard who marched with the Legion proudly flying their American Flags. He also instilled his love of music to many children while giving piano lessons.


Upon retirement he enjoyed golfing, traveling and wood working in his garage, when he wasn't mowing his lawn.


He leaves behind his loving family including numerous nieces, nephews, in-laws and dear friends who will remember the good times they had together.


Gene was predeceased by his parents; four brothers and spouses, Edward (Ruth), Harry (Adelaid), Bobby (Evelyn) and Richard; a nephew, Ed Jr.; his in-laws, Mary and Charles, Chuck, and Sylvia Medved.


Calling hours will be held 6 to 8 p.m., Monday, May 15, 2006 at the E.J. Skinner Co. Funeral Chapel, Worcester.


A Mass of Christian Burial will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 16, 2006 at the St. Joseph's Church, Main St., Worcester with the Rev. Edward Golding as celebrant.


Burial will follow at the Maple Grove Cemetery in Worcester with military honors presented by the Worcester American Legion Post 1584.


In lieu of flowers, a smile and a prayer with donations may be made to the St. Joseph's Building Fund, 181 Main St., Worcester, NY 12197, the Worcester Emergency Squad, PO Box 191, Worcester, NY 12197 or the Worcester Central School Band, 182 Main St., Worcester, NY 12197.


The E.J. Skinner Co., 155 Main St. in Worcester is serving the family.