Obituary for Gene Gann

Gene Gann died unexpectedly on Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on Aug. 6, 1948, in Chickasha, he was the son of Mel and Lora Gann. He grew up in Ninnekah, Blackwell, Enid and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1966. After attending New Mexico Military Institute, OU and NOC, Gene graduated from Central State University in 1970.

After graduation, Gene joined the family business, Mel’s, Inc. He later became the owner/operator of Mel’s and continued in this capacity until his retirement in 2010.

In his early years, Gene excelled in wrestling and baseball. Then, in the summer after seventh grade, he hit his first golf ball and played his first 18 holes. Gene had an immediate love of the game and was blessed with a God-given talent. Over the years he made many life-long friends through golf and had more fun than the law allows. Gene played competitively throughout high school, college and his entire adult life. He was a champion of the game.

Gene never met a stranger and never forgot a name. He made friends wherever he went. He enjoyed a good party, playing pitch at Ody’s, traveling and the OSU Cowboys. Gene will be remembered for his loyalty and generosity. His joke-telling is legendary.

Gene is survived by his wife, Jensi; daughter, Sally Riche (David); son, Cory Gann; grandson, Kaleb; sister, Loretta James; step-daughters, Amy Wachtman (Donnie); Lisa Watson (Aaron) and was Papa Gene to Carter, Isla and Katie. He was loved and will be missed.

A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church, 218 South Sixth Street, on Friday, Jan. 9 at 2 p.m. Honorary casket bearers are Barry Bickle, Pat Bryant, Steve Kinzie, Vernon Merrifield, Lynn Moore, Larry Murphy, Rod Murray, Jerry Orr and Joe Theobald. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wentz Jr. Golf, 516 E. Grand Ave., Ponca City, OK 74602 or Ponca City Humane Society, 900 W. Prospect, Ponca City, OK 74604. paid obituary.

Source: Trout Funeral Home