Gene Arthur Music

Gene Music, family man, loving and loyal husband of 57 years, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on the morning of March 4th, 2015. He was, during his lifetime, a friend to many, a wonderful uncle/cousin/brother-in-law and son, rocket engineer, painter, photographer, superb vocalist, football player, griller, avid golfer, skier, sailor, navigator, farmer and muck raker, bridge aficionado, audiophile, voracious reader, widely and well travelled, and a man of great humor who brightened the world with his generous smile. Gene served in US Naval intelligence during the early days of the cold war and was honorably discharged after postings and assignments in Europe, N.Africa, and Washington D.C. After his military service, he enrolled and graduated from Adrian College with a degree in metallurgical engineering. While at Adrian College, he met the love of his life, Phyllis, while she was studying education across town at Sienna Heights College. They were married in 1958, and then settled down to the business of life and family after the military. During his career, he held positions with Bridgeport Brass, Boeing (Apollo 8 program), LTV, Parsons Corp., Allegheny Ludlum, Atcheson Colloids, and was owner of Great Bay Engineering. In later years, Gene was very active in the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo where he was a passionate participant in the choir, and served in the church session. He was a member of the Kalamazoo Singers, and relished his new role as grandfather to Galen. Gene was preceded in death by his mother Mildred (Dunseith) Johnson, father Arthur R. Music, and step-father C. Harvey Johnson. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Music, son, Mark Music, grandson, Galen Music, daughter-in-law, Carolin (Nguyen) Spice, numerous brother and sister-in-laws, nieces, and nephews. We are all richer for his gifts of curiosity, wonder, and the belief that the world is a good place well worth a thorough visit. He was deeply loved and will be missed by many. Visitation with the family will be held from 1:00-2:00 pm, and Memorial Service at 2:00-3:00pm, Saturday, March 14th at the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo, 321 W. South St., Kalamazoo, MI. Rev. Dr. Seth Weeldreyer, Pastor, presiding. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Performing Arts of the First Presbyterian Church of Kalamazoo, 321 W. South St., Kalamazoo, MI 49007-4708. Comments and tributes can be left for the family online at www.avinkcremation.com