Eugene Esta Opperman, Jr, 80, of New Knoxville, Ohio, died November 6, 2024, at Joint Township District Memorial Hospital after a 13 year battle with Parkinson’s disease.

He was born March 14, 1944, to Betty L. (Fogt) Opperman and Eugene E. Opperman, Sr. who preceded him in death.

He married Ruth E. Eschmeyer on October 26, 1963, and she survives along with their two children Mark A. (Edie) Opperman of Botkins, and Michelle K. Niemeyer of New Knoxville.

He is also survived by his 6 grandchildren:  Alycia (Jon) Niemeyer Raterman, Kyle (Aimee) Opperman, Kimberly Opperman, Taylor (Trent) Niemeyer Mullins, Anthony (Abigale) Opperman and Andrew Opperman.

And by great grandchildren:  Grace, Ella and Briggs Mullins, Vincent and Aubree Raterman, Carter Opperman and Savannah Hills.

His sister Florence (Don) Schroer also survives in New Knoxville.

Eugene graduated in 1962 from New Knoxville High School.  He lived most of his life in New Knoxville and was active in the community.  He served multiple terms on the school board and was a member of the New Knoxville Methodist Church.  He retired from Minster Machine and then went on to pursue his love of cars (especially Fords) by selling vehicles at both Sidney Ford and then at Kerns Ford in St. Mary’s.  He was an avid Nascar fan and even drove a race car at the MIS Richard Petty Driving Experience.  He also loved all sports, which is the only channel the TV would receive.

He loved his family dearly and was delighted in spending time with both his grandchildren and great grandchildren along with watching them in all of their activities.

Funeral rites will be held 11:00 A.M. Monday, November 11, 2024, at New Knoxville Methodist Church, the Reverend Dennis Gaertner, officiant. Burial will follow at Evangelical Protestant Cemetery in New Knoxville.

Friends may call from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. one hour prior to services on Monday at the church.

Gene’s funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Vornholt-Miller Funeral Home, 200 West Spring Street, New Knoxville. Memories and condolences may be shared via Millerfuneralhomes.net