John LeBlanc (Houston,TX)

"My first contact with Gene was through the Genii articles many, many moons ago. Over the last few years, we traded emails quite a bit, which I plan to print out and keep with my other valuables.

I've been blessed in the world of magic mostly through the people I've had the privilege of knowing. This is a small world, but it's of the kindest souls I've ever known. I'm going to miss Gene a lot."

Dave Tryzenski

"Over a year ago, Gene shared his expertise with me to help better a simple presentation I had posted on the Shadow Digest. Being an amateur, I remember how awed I was to receive a personal e-mail from him. Gene was always sharing his talent and imagination with us. Memories keep those we love in our hearts and minds......and those I have of Gene, are truly magical."

"Circe" (Marlene Clark)

"Gene's death is a great loss in so many ways. I never met Gene in person, but I felt a real connection to him through telephone conversations, snailmail & emails. We talked about life, love, the afterlife, garlic, his fear of anesthesia, kielbasa, childhood memories, and more. He sent me some of his artwork - from his "dark period," I think - strange visions  and dark humor, but that was Gene: He was creative, he shared freely, and he was opinionated. He was loyal to his friends, and he expected the same in return.

I also felt connected to Gene because it was he who asked me to join the Shadow Network and gave me the name, Circe. He wasn't a mentor, but he was certainly her creator. I'm grateful to have known Gene, I'm honored that he considered me a friend, and I shall miss him terribly."