Eugene Francis James Ranochak

On June 10, 2026, at the age of 88, the peaceful waters of Heaven called Gene home. One can only imagine the smile on his face as he cast a line in search of the largest trout those waters have to offer.

Born and raised in the small coal-mining town of Portage, Pennsylvania, Gene learned responsibility at an early age. At just eleven years old, after the passing of his father, he became the man of the house, helping care for his mother and younger brother.

At nineteen, Gene married the love of his life, Antoinette "Toni" Scipione. This month would have marked their 70th wedding anniversary. Together they built a life centered on family, faith, hard work, and devotion. Raising seven children often required Gene to work more than one job. He was a skilled mechanic for Strick Trailer and later an accomplished Hazmat Foreman for Chemical Leaman Corporation.

Gene had a special gift when it came to children. He coached Little League, served as a Cub Scout mentor, and shared his knowledge with anyone willing to learn. His children, grandchildren, neighborhood kids, and countless friends learned from him the skills of fishing, fly-tying, hunting, trapping, mushroom foraging and self-reliance. Family members fondly remember first rabbit hunts, fishing trips filled with tangled lines and friendly arguments over who caught the biggest fish, and the patience Gene showed through it all.

One of Gene's greatest dreams became reality with the purchase of land and the building of the family hunting camp in Potter County, Pennsylvania. Completed in 1989 with the help of family and friends, the camp remains a cherished gathering place filled with laughter, stories, practical jokes, and memories that will live on for generations.

Those fortunate enough to learn from Gene continue to carry on his traditions and love of the outdoors, many taking those skills to impressive levels. His legacy lives on not only through the lessons he taught, but through the lives he touched with his humility, generosity, and unwavering love for family.

While Gene's passion for hunting, trapping, and fishing defined much of his life, nothing brought him greater joy than his beloved wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and dear friends.

Gene is survived by his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Toni; his sons Steve, Ricky, Ronnie, and Jim; and his daughter, Krissy. He was preceded in death by his beloved sons, Michael and David, whose loss was deeply felt by Gene and his family.

He is also survived by fourteen grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and many extended family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements entrusted to Szpindor-Meyers Funeral Home

Condolences may be made by visiting www.meyersfh.com