Gene was born on October 28, 1947 to Martin Minniffee Close and Lucy Georgiana Close (Sellers) in Brandon, IA.  Gene, after getting his high school diploma, went on to serve in the United States Army where he fought in the Vietnam War.  He was honorably discharged from the Army and received both the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star for his service.  Gene went on to attend college at the University of Missouri – Rolla and earned his Bachelors of Science degree in Computer Science.  Gene worked as a software data analyst for Lennox Heating and Air for 35 years.

On April 24, 1971, Gene married the love of his life, Rozella Marie Schmitz in La Porte City, IA.   They went on to have 3 children, Jeffery (Jeff) Martin, Amy Michelle, and William (Bill) John. Gene was blessed with one grandson, Garrett Michael Welby.

The things Gene loved most in life were family first, especially his wife Rozella, his work with the American Legion, fishing, going to the range, and flying for lunch with his friends.

Gene was predeceased by his beloved wife Rozella Marie, his parents Martin Minniffee and Lucy Georgiana, his brother Alvin Beryl Close (Denise), and his sister Ruth Elaine Close.

Gene is survived by his children Jeff Close (Heather), Amy Welby (Marc), Bill Close, his grandson Garrett Welby, his siblings Patricia Bumgarner, Diana Vonhagen (Dave), Paul Close, Ben Close, Sharon Kimmerle (Gary), Anthony Close (Kathy), Christopher Close (Amy) Rachel Webster (Kevin), Tim Close, and many nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at Allen Funeral Home, 508 Masters Ave, Wylie, TX.  The visitation will be on Friday July 7, 2023 from 6:00pm-8:00pm.  The funeral service will be on July 8, 2023 at 11:00 am.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, a cause both Gene and Rozella felt very strongly about.