GTA
GTA Intro and Help => GTA Announcement Gate => Topic started by: ezman604 on September 01, 2014, 10:44:25 PM
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Howdy my GTA family. Any of you that have been around from the old GTA Forum days may remember I can get long winded telling my stories. For those of you that are not familiar, I try to give you details to bring you along on my adventures. I could apologize for being so long winded in my writings but sometimes it is necessary. I ask that you please indulge me and read this one to the end.
Again, some of you have heard this story. For the repetition, I'm sorry, but I need to rehash it for the sake of those new family members and those that aren't familiar.
Back several years ago at our annual Fun Shoot, Gene and Bob pulled me aside and dragged me to a Mexican restaurant. After bribing me with a great meal, the conversation turned to managing GTA Forums. They both stated they were old and knew they would not be around forever and they needed to know they had someone that could hand their creation off to. I chuckled, we were NOT losing these guys any time soon. But they asked if I were willing to accept the task. I was totally speechless (if you can imagine that from me) for several seconds while my mind was literally flooded with a variety of thoughts and emotions. I came to GTA Forums back in 2009 and the largest reason for joining was reading the fascinating projects and creations of Mr. Gene Curtis. I wanted to learn and hoped by some magic, that his creative touch would wear off on me if I stuck around long enough. Mr. Bob Werner was and still is a highly respected airgun tuner and the creator of the BEST darn trigger on the market for any airgun it fits. I admire both of these gentlemen for what they have set their minds and hearts to do. And we are here as proof of their dedication to the airgun sport. They created our home, GTA International Airgun Forums. It was an honor to be sitting across from these two icons of the airgun world and have them asking me to take their creation and run with it. I have to say I was also scared. Could I do it? Can I do it justice? Will they respect me tomorrow??? LOL
We have assembled a great staff to help run GTA Forums. I respect each and every person that steps forward with love and dedication to this sport and our home that want to volunteer their time to help it flourish. This place cannot be what it is without dedicated volunteers. I am VERY thankful every day for their valuable time.
Now to the real reason for my ramblings. It really is my pride and honor to call Gene and Bob my friends. I cannot express the gratitude and honor of their asking me to take over managing this forum. I cannot express in words what these two have meant to me personally as well as to the ENTIRE airgun community. And also the honor of just being a part of something so extraordinary that they have built. When we are no longer on this earthly plane, we can only HOPE that we are spoken of with respect and honor. I can only pray that most folks will be able to say something good about me when I am gone. But I am posting this because I do not believe we should express our respect, admiration, honor and love for these two after they leave us. Yes, we will continue to do so but here is a chance to tell them NOW. Just in case they are really busy on the other side and can't hear us.
I am a man but I'm also not ashamed to say I love these two. They have touched my life and made a good mark on it that will never be forgotten.
(https://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/MGalleryItem.php?id=7078)
Thank you Gene and Bob!!!!
If you have something you would like to add or say, please do so. This is a thread to honor these two icons and to show them our appreciation for this home of ours they built!!!!
GOD Bless!!!!
Dave
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Yes we can't thank Bob and Gene enough for the GTA a home away from home for many of us. Thank you so much Bob and Gene!
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I have learned a great many things from this forum and the people on it, especially from Gene. It was fantastic to meet him in person in 2014 and see that he is an ornery old coot like I intend to be, with a smile that makes you shake your head and chuckle back at him. He was generous with his time, knowledge and even his possessions and I thank him for that.
I don't know bob, though have seen his work and appreciate his expertise and also friendly helpful spirit.
Thank you both for all you have taught me and will continue to teach others through this forum. Your kind spirits and friendly ribbing always made me smile.
I am better for knowing you.
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I would also like to thank you also Mr. Dave. Gene speaks very highly of you as well. I would also like to thank you for not evicting me. :)
Those two men of which you spoke built a very nice place, where we can unwind, enjoy company of others, and learn about a hobby we really enjoy. At the end of our lives we learn what is really important, and it is not the job we work at but the lives we touch on our journey.
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Mr. Bob and Mr. Gene, thank you both so very much for the years of dedicated service that you have given to this sport. Without your vision, this forum would not exist and I would have never gotten the chance to meet either of you. Although its only been a few personal meetings, I consider both of you friends for life. You have both, in your own ways, helped me enjoy this sport even more than I already did. It's truly been an honor and a privilege meeting and spending time with yall. If I ever learn one quarter of the airgun information that yall have forgotten, I'd be the dadgumdest airgun mechanic on earth. I am very proud to know you both and to be able to call you friends.
Richard
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;D Gene and Bob thank you for the GTA I have found new friends and actually met some face to face and enjoyed a day of shooting with them . Shared old stories with many of my friends here as well so again thank you both for this wonderful forum and thank you Dave for being the person willing to pick up the torch and continue the fine traditions that the GTA was founded upon. Thank you for also answering some of my newbie questions and thank you all for letting me be a member of this family as well
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A very big thank you, Bob and Gene!
Like others have said, this like a second home to me.
And a big thank you to you Dave!!
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Thank you for all you have done! As a new commer, you sure know how to make me feel welcome and it's for this reason alone this place is unique on the Internet. You are all an amazing source of information and I am truly grateful for all your incredible work.
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If you look up airguns in the dictionary you should see a picture of Bob and Gene. I spoke with Bob a very long time ago on the phone about his trigger when I was a noob and he was very helpful and didn't make me feel like I was wasting his time. I've also talked with, bought from, sold to and traded with Gene on many occasions and was treated like family. These guys have put so much of their time, money and lives into the airgun community and this Forum and created the best place to learn and make new friends.
The GTA is a great place to be. Thank You Bob and Gene for all you've done for us all.
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The old saying: lead, follow, or get out of the way comes to mind. Gene and Bob created this forum and lead it for years, and Dave, now you have stepped up to fill some mighty big boots. And you are doing it admirably, as Bob and Gene still do some leading behind the scenes.
In my book, Gene and Bob are two great men, great leaders with vision, a willingness to share knowledge, the ability to create a friendly and safe place, and the never-ending tenacity to get the job done. I feel very fortunate just to have met these two fine gentleman face to face. To say that their forum changed my life might seem like a bit of a stretch, but it is the honest truth.
Gene and Bob, I sincerely thank you.
Lloyd Sikes
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Thank you Bob and Gene. The fact that nearly all internet searches for air gun information lead to the GTA is testimony to the fact that you have literally "grown" the sport by creating and nurturing a friendly place for learning and sharing.
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I've only been into air guns about a year and a half but have grown to love it. I couldn't enjoy as much as I do without GTA. Thanks guys. Tim.
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we are lucky to have this place
and we know who we owe it to!!!!!! 8)
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I am relatively new to all of this but i have to say thanks to these two men for starting this and to all the members I have come to know. Thanks to you all.
Tommy
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we are lucky to have this place
and we know who we owe it to!!!!!! 8)
+1
Also, thank you Dave, and all of the Mods too!
Cheers,
Smoketown
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GTA has had an unquestionably large influence on the entire science and art of airguns, reaching across the world and placing its mark on the history of the sport. I have no doubt that any major manufacturer or player in the industry listens carefully to what is said here. Of course the most important aspect is the friendly community of like-minded individuals to share, discuss, and bug the heck out of with my newbie questions!
Thanks to all of you!
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Mahalo nui loa to two great haole gentlemen. Aloha and hope you live long to enjoy your accomplishments.
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To Gene and Bob,
Thanks for creating and providing the coolest (and my most favorite place to hang out).
Thanks for all your hard work and dedication.
Thanks for the education, insight and experiences.
Thanks for your stories.
Thanks for your patience with us newbies.
Thanks for the camaraderie you have created here.
Thanks for it all,..
...And to DEz,
Thanks for this thread.
sincerely,
Ron
P.S.- Don't you guys think it would be a cool thing to see Paul Capello do a "round table chat" video with Bob, Gene, Tom, and maybe a few other guys too ? How about add in a few personalities like Manny, Ted, and Lloyd too ?
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Kudos to Bob and Gene for their work promoting airgunning and creating this site. And kudos also to all the moderators, administrators, and respected gurus that make and maintain this such a great gathering place.
Lets not talk about anyone going anywhere soon, except to our respective favourite shooting grounds, and continue to promote this insanely addictive pastime.
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In this case speechless is ok !! Well deserved !! Both are great folks and I am also happy to be a member of this outstanding forum.
M
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Amen I remember those days well Dez when we got to a thousand members we felt overwhelmed LOL!! Now look at the GTA, I have a love and respect for both these men, they both have a passion for this forum and a love for airguns that far exceeds most. I can tell you one thing though, is their decision making for a chief could not have been any better when they chose you Dez. Thanks David
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I have no idea why all you guys would want to praise and honor these two old farts. They are probably THE number one reason for my wallet being empty, my retirement put on hold indefinitely and every wall in my house cluttered with some form of air rifle. My tool shed is an indoor shooting range. My back room is full with the likes of spring compressors, tools, empty air rifle boxes and spare gun parts. Various FedEx and UPS drivers know me by my first name and the townspeople refer to me as the crazy guy out on route 10 with the yard full of targets. My butt, eyes and fingers hurt from sitting for hours on end in this chair reading and typing in this forum. I've met people who have taken my emotions tears to insane laughing. And I've crammed so much information into my old head that I have a perpetual headhache.
Wouldn't have it any other way. Thanks Bob, Gene and all involved in bringing the wonder place to reality.
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Hard to say more than has been said. I came here a few years back to get some info about a good AG for some pesting. Hadn't shot a pellet gun in 45 years. The rest is history. I'm so grateful that Bob and Gene have created this wonderful environment and that I can be a small part of it. It goes without saying that Dave has done a spectacular job of managing this monster since taking over the helm. I'd just like to know just how these guys find the time to do what they do?!! :o
pv
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I have no idea why all you guys would want to praise and honor these two old farts. They are probably THE number one reason for my wallet being empty, my retirement put on hold indefinitely and every wall in my house cluttered with some form of air rifle. My tool shed is an indoor shooting range. My back room is full with the likes of spring compressors, tools, empty air rifle boxes and spare gun parts. Various FedEx and UPS drivers know me by my first name and the townspeople refer to me as the crazy guy out on route 10 with the yard full of targets. My butt, eyes and fingers hurt from sitting for hours on end in this chair reading and typing in this forum. I've met people who have taken my emotions tears to insane laughing. And I've crammed so much information into my old head that I have a perpetual headhache.
Wouldn't have it any other way. Thanks Bob, Gene and all involved in bringing the wonder place to reality.
+1 Well said, my wallet resembles those remarks. :)
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Gene and Bob - A couple of living legends. What a legacy!
Legacy:
Often when you think about legacy, it’s something that is left behind after a person has passed. Legacy is more about sharing what you have learned, not just what you have earned, and bequeathing values over valuables, as material wealth is only a small fraction of your legacy. A more holistic definition of legacy is when you are genuinely grounded in offering yourself and making a meaningful, lasting and energizing contribution to humanity by serving a cause greater than your own. The requirements of a legacy are that you embrace your uniqueness, passionately immersing your whole self into life so that your gift will be to all and that you take responsibility to ensure that it will have a life beyond that of you, its creator, outliving and outlasting your time on earth.
Thank you both for sharing all you have.
Mark
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Boy, hard to top all of the great posts here already. Thank you so much Bob and Gene for what you have created here. I've learned so much, met some great people, laughed and even shed a few tears.
I would be so lost with airguns without all the help I've received these last couple of years. I only wish I had more money to donate more often.
Thank you too Dez and all the mods.
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Bob, Gene, THANK YOU for creating and growing this incredible resource and family! I am proud to be a part of it!
And huge thanks as well to all of the other Moderators and supporters of this fine 'home away from home' !
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The GTA website is the reason i have a renewed interest in this sport
Thank you
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No big thing and I am not one to ring my own bell..:) Time does pass and for some of us quicker than others. I am just another air gunner loving to shoot and play wiff my BB guns..:)
It is time to pass the battan on to David Easley. One of the strongest leaders I have met in my life. He will do well and carry on what Bob and I started. This will not make any difference in how the GTA is run but only effects a name and address.Your donations will still be used to support the GTA since we do not use banner ads to pay for everything. Bob and I are completly out of the Administration and Management of the GTA now. Will be around for a while I hope..:) and posting when I can. Bob has been quite sick and has been going through many surgeries and doctors visits for the last year. He almost is unable to walk any longer but still looks in on the GTA when he can.
Thanks for all your donations and support
Gene
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I have been in the forum for awhile and have seen Gene interact with a lot of people. The forum they both created is a great place to be ;DLove the atmosphere that Bob and Gene created,God Bless you both..
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Yeh...ditto, ditto, ditto....what all they said!
I'm new here but find this site to be so helpful. I've gotten boat loads of information as well as enjoyment here.
But the one thing that impresses me the most is how nice and clean this site is. I drop in on several different sites of various topics across the net and I've never seen one set up and moderated any better than GTA.
Folks are kind, helpful, understanding and give to the community in a serious way.
You can't make this happen overnight and it has to be quite a challenge to maintain these days.
I early on sensed there was a reason for this and I'm fast discovering "who" the reasons are.
Thank you Gene and Bob and all those that continue to make this happen!
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Hi Dave,
Yes Gene and Bob deserve our most heartfelt gratitude for creating a forum for air gunners. As for managing their forum they have passed that crushing responsibility on to you. They must believe their confidence in you is well founded.
Chuck
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Bob and Gene,
I've never met you, but I did buy a CDT trigger for my Phantom. I couldn't believe it would make THAT much difference in how much fun it is to shoot. I hate the long hard pull of the stock trigger. Instead of focusing on the target, I had to focus on my trigger pull. Your trigger has turned that around. THANK YOU! I also appreciate this great forum you started. I've received a LOT of great help from nice people. Help I needed back in 88 when I bought my first break barrel Umerux and got frustrated with how hard the trigger was and it's in accuracy. Powerful yes, but what good is that if you can't hit what you're aiming at? If I had had this support group back then, I might still own that rifle.
Again, THANK YOU!
Don
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One more thing to add for Bob and Gene. You guys could write a book on how to successfully build and run a forum. Of all the forums I post/read on, this is by far the most well run. This isn't limited to AG sites. Hockey, fishing... can't think of any other forum even 1/3 the size of GTA that is this well put together.
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Thanks Bob and Gene!! I also want to thank Dave and all the members on GTA for making it such a great place! ;) ;D
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Well said D Ez and great story! :D
I have never had the honor of meeting either Gene nor Bob in person, but have learned enough to have the highest respect for their contributions to our hobby and to greatly appreciate it!
I have personally talked with Gene several times in length on the phone...developing a very valued friendship with him and I have found him to be one of the most generous people I have ever known!
Gene has been a huge asset to my love of this great hobby!
I will soon have the pleasure of owning one of Bob's ever famous creations...the GRT-III and will be proud to state that my Titan GP .22 has this master-piece of design, craftsmanship and workmanship on it!
I look forward to meeting Gene in Bob at the next GTA Fun-Shoot or sooner! Actually hoping to go spend a day with Gene just as soon as I get the chance to head in his direction!
I would like to thank them both at this time for the GTA, as it has been an incredible joy for me since day 1 of joining it!
Thanks Gene and Bob...very much!
Sincerely,
Al.
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I hardly think the Back Room is the place for this thread.... Our founders need to be honoured openly to thank them for their vision in creating this, our home, the GTA....
Thanks to both Bob and Gene, and to DEz for taking up the torch so ably....
Bob Sterne
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Just moved this thread to the Announcement Gate. And reviving it for folks that may not have seen it to read and post to.
Thanks.
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Just to bring it back for another look. Some may have missed this and would like to see a little history of how we got to where we are today.
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Thank you Bob and Gene! And everyone else here!
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I don't know these fine gentleman tho post is about, but thank you. I know I'm new here, but whitout GTA, I would of not found all the use full info that I now contain(still learning). Hopefully I am accepted by this community of knowledgeable wealth and become one of the regulars😃
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Thanks to all you good folks there! And also to all GTA members that make this THE best place to share our sport..
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I am very new here. None the less, Mr. Gene and Mr. Bob you have my greatest admiration and respect. GTA is truely a home. I have never felt more welcome and warmth from a single group of people who have never met me. In the month or so Ive been a member the people here have supported and nourished my airgun and hunting knowledge base past my expectation. Never failing to answere a question and offer support. GTA is my sanctuary. Especially after conversations with friends or family who bombard me with the never ending "Why don't you get a "real" gun?" So thank you both for creating a place like this for people like me.
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I am very new here. None the less, Mr. Gene and Mr. Bob you have my greatest admiration and respect. GTA is truely a home. I have never felt more welcome and warmth from a single group of people who have never met me. In the month or so Ive been a member the people here have supported and nourished my airgun and hunting knowledge base past my expectation. Never failing to answere a question and offer support. GTA is my sanctuary. Especially after conversations with friends or family who bombard me with the never ending "Why don't you get a "real" gun?" So thank you both for creating a place like this for people like me.
^^^ This ! ^^^
X2 !
Vveeerry Well Said !
My sentiments exactally
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Gene, Brother.... May you rest in peace good sir. Thank you for all you have done for the web site, and the community in general.
http://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=89814.0 (http://www.gatewaytoairguns.org/GTA/index.php?topic=89814.0)
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Rest in Peace, Gene ...
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I just learned of Gene's passing and there are no words to adequately express the gratitude I feel toward him for creating such a wonderful place to cultivate our love of this wonderful hobby.
I feel privileged to have met him at last year's fun shoot. He sent me back with QB78 and some parts to make him a regulated HPA rig. Just as I was finishing it up, he confided his predicament and graciously offered to let me keep it for my son. I will cherish it every time we go out on a squirrel hunt and I will think of the wonderful community Gene created for us to share.
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My deepest condolences to Cathy, Gene will be sorely missed
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Gene,
Gods speed to those who once walked among up .... Thanks for your contributions you made in your life !!
With MUCH respect ...
Scott
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Rest in peace. Peace especially to his family and loved ones.
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You just cannot find words at a time like this so "Gods speed my friend" and the best to Cathy. I am just glad you are not suffering anymore.
Bob
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So sorry to hear of Genes passing,him and Bob are both American air gun icons. There dedication to this fine sport will live on for years to come. I love the GTA forum and thank everyone here for being so friendly and helpful in the way that would make Gene proud I'm sure. Sending love and light to Genes family and close friends. God speed and best wishes. Dana Webb
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Very saddened to hear of Gene's passing. Never got to meet him, but I am very thankful for what he has provided for us. Condolences to his family and friends.
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;D God speed and my prayers to Gene and his family. I am not the best wordsmith but I feel compelled to say that his efforts in founding the GTA has helped me to enjoy this sport and the people he made it possible to meet here
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Sorry to hear Gene passed away. I never met/talked to him but I am sure he was a great guy. I just want to say thanks for the great forum. I will say some prayers for Gene and his Family.
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Rest in peace Gene, and thank you for making this world a better place.
We will miss you and all that have known you are blessed to have known you.
I only wish I could have met you.
My thought and prayers are with your family
Sincerely
Dave
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Thoughts and prayers for Gene, his family and his friends.
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Rest in peace Gene. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
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My deepest condolences to Cathy and Gene's family. I never met him, but if this forum is any indication of his character, a great man has left us. Max respect, Gene. We will miss you.
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Many prayers sent......very sad day.
Every pm sent to Gene over the last 9 or so years was answered with patience and a laugh.
I'll miss him very much.
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My deepest condolences and prayers for Gene, his family and his friends. :'(
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I never met Gene and I have been a GTA member for a very short time but I share the same "Agent Orange" brotherhood with him. USMC Vietnam 68-'69.
God speed Gene. May we meet in the big fraternity in the sky.
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I am shocked and saddened to learn of this loss. I learned most of what little I know from Gene and Bob's forum... they were truly my Gateway to Airguns when I was really new, and beyond. I never met Gene in person but felt that I knew him better than my next door neighbors.
RIP Gene and thank you, belatedly, for all you created for me and fellow airgunners worldwide. The GTA and airgunning in general came a long way because of you. I really felt touched by this announcement personally.
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So Sad to hear, My deepest condolences and prayers for Gene, his family
Chet
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Rest in peace Gene, and thank you for all you have done to make this world a better place.
You have touched the lives of so many more than you could ever know.
You will be greatly missed, but NEVER forgotten.
God bless you and your family.
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We ask what the "Purpose" of life is. It is simple. Make a "Difference". Gene made his difference. May we all follow his lead and find a way to make ours.
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Although my time here has been brief, it has been filled with immense pleasure and for that I am truly greatly to those who have created such a community. Rest in piece, and know your legacy continues.
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Ol' Gene's humor was top shelf. Those who meet him talked to him on the horn or in chat know what I'm talking about.
Gene had this knack of calling me at 6 am Westcoast time, and going into this or that. While I was cursing him out he'd chuckle and say " oh? It's what time there?!" He knew, he knew what he was doing.
For the love, for the humor for the life.
https://youtu.be/KodNFsP6r88
Til we meet again.
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A loss as we all know.
Warren DWC? His health is at question as well. Our last conversation was everthing has an experation date.
Sadly it is true.
No one of is given tomorrow.
Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep,
If I shall die before I wake,
I pray the Lord my soul to take. Amen."
Another loss of our community sadly!#
Prayers to the family from the FANG Family
FANG
JUNKYARD AIRGUN'S
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My Deepest sympathy Cathy, Gene has such a great legacy here and will always be remembered, My prayers go out to you.
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my deepest condolences to gene and his family...
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My deepest sympathy and condolences to the family. I havent been around here that long, but have learned a lot and am thankful for this platform with the wealth of knowledge I have found here.
May God Bless and look over the family.
Ed
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Rest in Piece Gene and many prayers have been said. I thank you for creating this wonderful community we call our second home and I am so glad that I was fortunate to have stumbled on it a few years ago. I will always cherish the phone calls we had and how I wish we had actual meet.
My deepest sympathy go out to Cathy and all of Gene's family.
God bless
Norm
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My deepest condolences. My thoughts and prayers to Cathy and loved ones.
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Returned home tonight, logged on to GTA and learned of Genes passing. I honestly don't know the words to express how sorry I am to hear of this loss. I unfortunately never had the pleasure to meet Gene in person, I surely wish I had, but even never having met him in person it was easy to see that he was a very special person, with a true love for the sport of airgunning and the for the people involved in it. People such as Gene are indeed rare and I consider myself blessed to have known him as I did. Genes legacy is a testament to his greatness and inner spirit and will live on with each post made on GTA and in the memories we each have of him that we will carry with us until it is our time to take our final journey. Farewell Gene and thank you.
Jeff
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My deepest condolences and prayers for Gene, his family ,A man with a big heart willing to put so much into something for others. We Need so many more like Him -RIP my friend ~~~BS50~~
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FANGhttp://www.network54.com/Forum/746607/thread/1429843289/last-1429843289/GENE++GTA
Many thanks GENE and GTA. A great loss to the community.
FANG
JUNKYARD AIRGUN'S
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Thank you so much Bob and Gene. God bless you.
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I cannot express how much it saddened my heart to this news about Gene. I came upon this forum back in 2005. I was so impressed with the open hearted welcome I received from all the members, but most of all from Gene and Bob.
As my involvement in the forum deepened, Gene and I developed a wonderful relationship. Gene had come to refer to me as his "little sis." I felt honored that he felt that way about me and was more so by his trust in me and his willingness to give, not just to me but to so many of our members.
I can't find the right words to say goodbye to you as you deserve Gene. All I can say is that my heart will always be a little heavier with your passing and that I will truly miss you "Big Brother."
Stephanie Musick
Colorado Springs, CO
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I cannot put into words on this loss. A huge internet hug goes to Cathy and family, on the pain and endurance needed to deal with the prolonged illness and its treatment regimen taxations. I am ok with the sufferance being done, but not the loss part. For that, I'm truly sorry.
I offer my most heavy, heart felt condolences to the family, and to the longterm mods here who continue to push Gene's vision and desires into the future as he and Bob wanted.
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R.I.P.Gene you will be greatly missed ,see you on the other side My Brother
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Dave, as you know, I am a very new member here, but I have already learned much here; and "here" (GTA) would not be here if not for Gene and Bob; I owe them a debt of gratitude, and one to you, also, for agreeing to take on the task of continuing GTA in the future.
Gene, I'm sorry I did not get to meet you this side of the veil; I pray for a place in deep heaven for you; and for your friends and family, I pray God will grant them a measure of the peace that surpasses all human understanding (in His own good time).
take care & God bless,
dave
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I was not here long enough to have direct contact with Gene, but have read many of his post. Rest in peace Gene, your guidance and knowledge have helped this guy and many, many more. Condolences to his family and friends.
Cheers,
John
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Rest in peace Gene and thank you for sharing your gifts with the world!
God bless!
Travis
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With my deepest regards, RIP Gene
“The greatest healing therapy is friendship and love.”
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A sad evening when I heard this news. We have lost a dear friend, a true gentleman, an honored American veteran, and a giant of our air gun community. Thank you, Gene, for all you shared and taught us, and for all you gave back to this community. You will be sorely missed, but ever remembered by those of us who had the good fortune to know you well, to have shared time with you and to have counted you among our true friends. Rest in peace, big guy.
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As a member for only a year or so it is sad when you get the news of the passing of such a great man that gave more than i know to a great forum and to a great group of members that helped whenever asked...with my deepest respect RIP Gene...
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Gene was a true master of his craft and such a generous soul. I'll miss my friend.
Richard
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Gene will be greatly missed. R.I.P co-founder of a great airgun forum.
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I've only been a member here for a week or two and don't really know Mr. Gene but it looks like he helped built a great forum and seemed to be a great guy from what I have read. I would also like to thank him for serving our country and preserving all the rights and freedoms we have as a country. Rest in peace buddy.
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RIP Gene. You'll be sorely missed, but your work lives on.
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RIP Gene. :(
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Rest in peace
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Goodbye, my friend.
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One more thing to add for Bob and Gene. You guys could write a book on how to successfully build and run a forum. Of all the forums I post/read on, this is by far the most well run. This isn't limited to AG sites.
Why not, built and guided by a couple of Gentlemen. I never expected less.
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My thoughts and prayers are with his family. I sincerely hope his legacy will endure for many generations with his continued guidance. Kudos my friend, wishing you only sunny days with little wind.
pv
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Really sad to read of Gene's departure ! :(
As a RELATIVELY new visitor to GTA I would also like to join in expressing my thanks to/for Gene and Bob who started it all! I also thank those dedicated moderators who make this smooth running forum possible! I visit several airgun forums but my favourite has become the GTA thanks to those brilliant minds that made this site so "user friendly"!
No other airgun site I attend allows me to simply click a button and view only replies to my posts, personal messages, unread posts, etc, and all is available without the hassle of viewing pages of buried posts just to see if there is a new reply to an old post!
Again......THANKS BOB, GENE, THE MODERATORS, AND ALL WHO VISIT MAKING THE GTA A SPECIAL PLACE TO VISIT!
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Gene,
You will be missed. Thank you for providing us with a great forum, even greater laughs, friendship and kindness.
Daniel
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Gene,
I wish you all the airguns you could ever dream of and the most amazing shop in the afterlife! I'm sure when its my time you will be there with open arms welcoming me just like you did when I made the 18 hour drive to the GTA shoot.
My friend you will be missed till we meet again.
Bruce
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I am a man of few words when it comes to serious matters.
Gene,
You, your family, friends, & the GTA members (your extended family) are in my thoughts and prayers. Thank you for letting me be part of your life.
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My condolences go out to family and friends.
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It is always sad to hear about someone like Gene passing,and i will miss my chatting with him and talking airguns,my prayers go to his family. He will be missed by many others as well as me.
Gods speed Gene! miss you here,Mark...
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Although I'm new to AGs and GTA, and I wish I could have had the honor of knowing Gene, I just wanted to offer my condolences to the family and community. If not for GTA, I probably wouldn't have become interested in this great hobby. Thanks to Gene and the community he has built, I'm looking forward to leaning about and participating in this great sport!
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May God protect and keep Gene and his family in their hour of need.
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When I first joined the GTA I found it amazing and refreshing to have a place to get good information without hassle and aggravation. Mr. Gene was among the first to make me feel welcome and gave freely of his extensive knowledge and experience. A few months later, at his urging, I went to my first fun shoot. Due to the time of day that I had to leave, I was scheduled to arrive at his house at 2:30 a.m. At this point, I had never met (in person) him or any of these people that I was traveling half way across the country to meet. Along my 12+ hour ride, he called me every hour or so to check my progress and to make sure that I was still safely awake while driving. At some point, he finally had to go to bed and told me that he was leaving the back door open for me. "Just come on in and make yourself at home" he said. I didn't actually meet him until several hours of sleep later. Who does that? Mr. Gene Curtis, that's who. That was the beginning of a great 5 year friendship with him and his lovely wife Cathy. I know that it gets tossed around a lot about the GTA being a "family", but I can't stress enough how very true this is. We are a family here and we'll forever mourn the loss of our patriarch and dear friend. My heart is heavy and my prayers are flowing for all who knew and loved him.
Richard Aucoin
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My condolences goes out to family, friends, and all the members here on the GTA. Gene's legacy lives on in this fine forum. This hobby would not be as great without this forum.
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My condolences go out to Gene's family and friends. Although I did not know him, personally, he will be sorely missed. We have lost a truly honorable man. The world was a richer place, while he walked this earth.
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Sending my sincerest condolences to Gene's family and friends.
I'm very new here, but Gene, many thanks for the outstanding resource that I'm finding GTA to be.
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Gene, you have been welcomed home...all things shall be made right.
Cathy, my prayers continue for you Sister in your time of grief.
Sola deo Gloria!
Dan
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Sad news, May God protect and keep Gene and protect and care for his family in their hour of need and going forward.
Gene, it was an honor to know and share time with you. Thank you for all you have done.
You will always be loved and remembered. See you on the other side ;D
Roald.
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Sorry to read of Gene's passing. I didn't have the pleasure of knowing him, but all of you and this great site are an apt and honorable memorial.
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Very sorry to hear the sad news. Hugs and prayers for his loved ones. Thanks for your efforts Gene. Save us a spot on the range...
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Gene, Thanks for the memories! Deepest condolences to your family and friends.
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Condolences and fair winds and following seas, sir!
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Two great guys in the airgun industry. Innovators and gentlemen, they are sorely missed. May you both enjoy endless BBQs and shoots in heaven gents!
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God speed Gene, I'll think of you everytime I log onto GTA or squeeze the CDT trigger. You and Bob shall be remembered as the World's Greatest Enablers.
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Just an FYI.
Bob is not gone...he is still very much with us.
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Sorry Dave and Bob.. I knew that.. I just reread my post and I can see where it could be misunderstood. My intention was to give props to both of these gentlemen.
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Rest in peace ,Brother Gene and to his wife, family and friends I am so sorry for the your loss.
There is an ache in my chest , having to write this.
Gary
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Very sad and crushing news. One of the most Honest and helpful persons I've had the pleasure of knowing.
I'll cherish the NP2 I got from him even more then before.
:'(
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Very sad to hear. Gene had foresight, and with Bob...did us all good by bringing "us" together.
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God bless you and your family and thank you.
Bill
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My condolences to Gene's family and friends! :(
I never had the honor to talk to Gene, but I am honored to be part of this forum of fine people he co-founded.
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So sad to hear. our hearts and thoughts go out to Gene's family My condolences to them.
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Such sad news. His message to us left me touched. This forum has and will continue to be the best community to ever come about because of a hobby. Certainly feels like home.
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Very sorry to hear. Thoughts and prayers go out to Gene's family.
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Gene, you will be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your friends and family. Find us a good range up there so we can join you one day.
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My prayers are with Gene, and his family...and all of the GTA extended family as well. He will be missed greatly.
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Very Very Sorry to hear of Gene's passing! God Bless and keep his Family in this time of Need!
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It has taken me a day or so to find the words. While I knew it was coming, you can't ever prepare for this kind of news. Gene was many things to me. A mentor, confidant, father figure, but more than any of that, he was a friend. I miss the days when we used to just shoot the bull in the chat room for hours on end. It was an integral part of my airgun education and life education. As many that knew him have said, he was one of the most caring and giving individuals you could meet. I still remember my first fun shoot and he spent about two hours running back and forth from the house to the back getting different guns for my Dad and I to shoot. He had my Dad hooked after the R9. Shortly there after, my Dad and I sent Gene an R9 to tune and she came back nothing short of amazing. That gun still sits in my Dad's collection and will never go anywhere as long as I am around.
Over the years, my Dad and I visited Gene a few times and not just for the fun shoot. We dropped in on Gene over a weekend in early September during my Sophomore year of college. We tooled around all day, shot guns, talked life and left with big smiles. I will always look on the time I spent with Gene with great joy. A few years later when I graduated college, my parents sent Gene and Cathy a picture from my graduation and every time I talked with Gene on the phone he always made sure to tell me it was still on the mantle. That's just the kind of guy he was, he was family! Now my family is a bit smaller, but all the better for having known Gene. When I took my job at Pyramyd, Gene was one of the first people I called. He told me he was proud of me. I didn't realize it then but looking back, that means so much to me.
I will always carry a part of you with me my friend. Your influence on me was greater than I believe you knew. But I need to thank you for everything you've done, shown and given to me. You were a second father to me and now that you're gone, things just wont be the same. I know we will see each other again, but I will miss you until that day comes. Love ya buddy, rest in peace.
(and just for you) Tylers :'(
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This has to be the hardest post I have had to write....
I'm not a regular in here these days...But I will never forget the hours spent talking with Gene in the chat..
You would have to go a long way to find a nicer guy..
You will be missed.. But never forgotten , you will live on in the pages of GTA..
Bye yer old bugger..never got to meet yer in this life..who knows about the next...
Pete
NZ
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I'm a newcomer here, and I didn't have the privilege of knowing Gene personally, but I'd like to extend my deepest sympathy
to Cathy and the rest of his family. Suffice it to say that I'm currently 'walking my mile' in her shoes.
God bless...
Warmest Regards,
Butch
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Im truly not good at these things... and im having a hard time believing such loss has befallen us. Maybe I hope that the memories and moments we shared in this forum and at the shoots will live forever in our hearts and carry on his legacy for ever, as i naively like to believe. He was a gracious host, and a knowledgeable source of info and i can't seem to grasp how much of a loss this really is to the airgun community. I know that he is in the great hunting grounds, slowly strolling, air rifle in hand, just passing time til we can all be reunited at the end. My heart goes out to his wonderful life companion, who seem to put a twinkle in his eye every time she spoke to him... may we all be so lucky. I think Gene is now more than ever, here with us, and i like to think that he still guides us and interject on our behalf. Thank you Gene for the times you have given us. I will miss you man...
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To all of you that had or have anything to do with maintaining this great forum, THANK YOU!!
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Goodbye, my friend! God promises we shall meet again. See you there.
Joe
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Very sorry to hear. I have been greatly impacted by this forum and am deeply saddened by learning of the passing of one of its founders, Gene.
I try to remind myself each morning I'm fortunate enough to wake,
1) Life is temporary
2) Heaven is forever
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Being relatively new to the GTA forum, I never had the privilege of meeting Gene in person or on the forum. However, after reading all 7 pages of what others have had to say, you can't help but get a sense of who he was as a person and the number of lives he has touched in a positive way. It was important to him that this community of people continue to exist. And I hope as we go forward, that each of us would not just remember him...but try to be like him in someone else's life. Think of how much more wonderful this world would be with 10,000+ people freely giving of their time, talents, experience and expertise. Now that's a legacy....
May God be with his family as they deal with their loss.
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This came as a rather sudden shock to me. Having interacted on occasion with both Bob and Gene, I wish to express my regrets and condolences to his family and all the GTA community.
Gene was a gem of a guy and by his passing, will be sorely missed.
Grateful for having known him, and also for his memory continuing in the pages of this forum.
With deep sadness.
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Prayers to Gene, and the family.
Tom
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It is with a pain in my heart and a tear in my eye that i write this.
A true legend and a icon.Gene was a friend and a awesome person.GTA wiil never be the same without him.
My full condolences to Genes family,you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Thank you gene for all you've done.
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Thanks to y'all for keeping this forum up and running, and to everyone who remains patient with us old farts who never seem to learn more than a newbie. Gene's surprise passing (to me) reminds me that I only have a finite time left to play with my guns. I really need to cull the collection, and improve what I keep. Thanks for all the help, past, present, and (I hope) future.
:beer:
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Gene and GTA has brought a hobby to me that will for sure last a lifetime. My thoughts and prayers out to Gene's family. Rest easy.
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My best to all of his family and friends. Hate to see the man go.
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It's always hard to see someone go, but especially when they have a heart as big as Gene's. He is missed.
Lloyd-ss
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Hello, it's been awhile since I've been on GTA and looks like it had been too long since I said hi to my good friend Gene . I was shocked to read of his passing .
I met Gene online many years ago and in person at the very first "Get Together " .
He will be truly missed .
Prayers to his family . David Kirby aka gillchaser
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Oh boy.... During my leave of absence from the forums, I missed on something big. I got to meet Gene at last years fun shoot. I was only there for part of 1 day, and had to leave. But during that time, I got to talk to gene a bit. From my time on the forum, and my time I had to talk to Gene, it's been a pleasure. Thanks for everything Gene, and god Bless.
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I have just joined the club recently and other than my required introduction post this will be my first in any gate. I'm honored that it be in recognition someone so respected by the community and whose contributions have led to the benefit of so many, "God bless you Gene". I too have felt the loss of ones close to me because of cancer, I detest it. Unless a person goes through the ordeal with someone, and I wish that on nobody, it's hard to realize the pain, emotions, prayers, and totally unveiled conversations that take place during such time. I believe all Americans should honor those who give so much and whose shoulders we stand on in so many areas of each of ours lives. Thank you to all those responsible for establishing this forum. I wish I could have met Gene.
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Thought about adding a link to this thread into the recent announcement. But instead, I will just add a reply to bring it back for another look and more comments if you wish.
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I remember the first time I met both Gene and Bob. It was the Funshoot at Gene's in the spring of 2012. I had talked to those two guys a few times on the phone before that, but here we were face-to-face. No pretentiousness at all. What you see is what you get. I remember thinking to myself, Wow, these two guys started the GTA from scratch and have grown it into, even if not the biggest, by far, the best, Airgun Forum in the world. How is that for a legacy?
Even though I am very sad that they are both now gone, I feel honored that I was able to meet them, learn from them, and call them my friends.
I will never forget them.
Lloyd
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My apologies for digging up a post that is long overdue.
Summing up Gene in a post seems a bit crazy to me; there was so much to the man that I'm sure at least one, if not many entertaining books could be written about his life and his unique perspectives, let alone the vast airgun craftsmanship and expertise stored in that man's head and heart.
My small piece of knowing Gene was a casual friendship that developed in the GTA chat room. He would always laugh at my silly way of approaching customizing airguns on a budget ("you are trying to be a machinist with a dremel??") and my constant chase of the perfect air rifle. I had an amazing time getting to know the man and his sense of humor.
He would always poke fun in a light-hearted way, razz me for being a cheapskate, and generally make me enjoy being part of the airgun community. Sometimes he spoke about the joys of his younger days, the new projects that he would be working on, or field a bunch of questions that new members would have when they joined chat.
I had moderator access at one point and was helping behind the scenes before life got too busy for me to continue. I thought already knew how much he cared about his extended family (the GTA community), but this peek into the backroom revealed a deeper level of devotion to us; he wanted to ensure that it remained a healthy, warm place for people to share the obsession that is airgunning. He put so much of himself into making this great place for both the new and the veteran.
I am glad I knew the man for the time I did. I am humbled by and thank him for his service to our country, as well as to the airgunning community. I wish I was able to make it to the GTA fun shoot the year it was at his home and meet him face to face. And I regret not coming back sooner to say goodbye to the man. I wish his family and those who knew him closely continued healing in his absence and peace in the future.
May he rest in peace.
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Because of the recent passing of another airgun brother, along with a couple of folks here locally that were friends of mine, I came back for another look at this thread. I'm reminded of how important it is to tell those around us how they have positively affected our lives. And how they have enhanced our lives. We are NOT guaranteed tomorrow. I'm so glad we were able to tell Gene and Bob our thoughts before we lost them.
GOD Bless you both and thanks again for all you did for us that you touched and for all you gave to the entire airgun community. We love you and miss you greatly!!!
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You are so.right Dave. There are some things and especially folks that you can never forget and shouldn't
RIP
Bob