Eugene “Gene” F. Pegnetter, 79, died quietly at home in Murphy on July 27, 2022, after a long tough battle with Parkinson’s Disease for the past 12 years.
He was born May 8, 1943, in Reynoldsville, Pa.
He lived a fun, well-traveled life, full of love and adventure. After graduating from Cornell University on a football scholorship in 1965, Gene successfully built a career in IT management.
Along the way, Gene and his wife, Sherry, created a loving life together on numerous boats, they took up motorcycle riding, and toured the country in RVs and a Sprinter van Gene converted himself.
Gene also loved his hobby of building cars. A special one being a 1954 Jaguar Mark IV, which was their honeymoon escape vehicle. His final project was a red 1955 Chevy pickup truck, which he drove in Murphy town parades.
They retired in Murphy in 2006. They quickly became strong supporters of the Murphy Bulldogs.
Sherry, his loving companion and wife of 42 years, was the perfect partner and balance in life.
Gene will be remembered for his kind heart and loving support of those who needed it, his strength and his ever present sense of humor. Everyone who met Gene liked him. He was a wonderful man.
Gene was predeceased by his parents. Alice and Richard C. Pegnetter Sr.; and older brother, Dr. Richard C. Pegnetter Jr.
Gene is survived by his wife, Sherry Pegnetter, who was with him until the end. Also surviving are daughters from his first marriage, Krista Pegnetter, 58, of Kingston, Pa., and Erika Pegnetter, 53, of Murphy.
No services will take place.
A Celebration of Life may be held at a future date.
For those wanting, donations in Gene’s honor can be made to Valley River Humane Society, 7450 U.S. 19, Marble, NC 28905 or online at https://valleyriverhumanesociety.org/donate.