Eugene M. Mihm, 63, died April 7, 2013, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Bunn, N.C.

He was born Dec. 9, 1949, to Mack and Mary Dickman Mihm. He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline (Gray) Mihm. Married Aug. 19, 1978, they handled all of life's challenges together, raising their children, making many friends along the way, and laughing every chance they could.

Survivors include his four children, Angela (Andy) Koopmans of Seattle, Wash.; Aaron (Gina) Pruitt of Celina, Ryan Pruitt of Wendel, N.C. and Leah (Joshua) Anderson of Youngsville, N.C.; his sister, Linda (Brian) McMahon of Perrysburg; and his two brothers, William "Bill" (Niki) Mihm of Logan; and Orlando (Mike) Mihm of Celina.

He doted on his six grandchildren, Tyler, 15, Tanner, 14, Katie, 8, Jacob, 7, Nathan, 5 and Zachary, 4. They were the love and joy of the last years of his life. He was also loved and adored by his many nieces and nephews.

He graduated from Celina Senior High School in 1968, was an avid Buckeye fan and enjoyed watching and sharing his opinions about most sports. He coached youth baseball, loved golfing, and maintaining his yard and swimming pool and playing cards. But what he enjoyed most of all was the company of his loving family and very close friends.

While serving a tour of duty in Vietnam, Sgt. Gene Mihm received a United States Army Commendation Medal for meritorious achievement. He was also a member of the VFW, American Legion, Moose Lodge and Northmoor Golf Club.

He worked a majority of his career in the telecommunications field as a field supervisor and was trusted and well respected by his colleagues.

A celebration of his life is 3-9 p.m. April 20 at the Celina K of C Hall. Friends and family are invited to join.

In lieu of flowers, the family's desire is to raise awareness of the existence and impact of esophageal cancer.