Gene O. Best was born on July 10, 1939, in Uhrichsville, Ohio and passed away on his 78th birthday, July 10, 2017, where he spent most of his life: Canton, Ohio. Geno served in the United States Marine Corps from from 1956-1958, and his platoon was based on Parris Island. One of the proudest accomplishments of his life was his career on the Canton City Fire Department, which began in 1965 at Station 1. He spent the majority of his time at Stations 4 & 10 on 25th Street, and retired with over thirty years of service. He truly enjoyed the brotherhood and comradery he found on CFD. Geno was a gentle and kind soul who liked to crack jokes and did not mind being the butt of many himself. Some of the other joys Gene Best savored included: bragging about his grandchildren; listening to Hammy announce Cleveland Indians games; yelling for (but more often "at") the Cleveland Browns; singing along with Dean Martin and Elvis on his "juke box;" mocking the weight problems of his daughter's dogs; eating coneys and cheeseburgers at local restaurants; spending charmingly, dysfunctional holidays with his family; but most of all, spending winter months in his beloved Florida Keys and sharing "adult beverages" with his soulmate, Cathy "Red" Doyle. Gene was preceded in death by parents Lawrence and Margaret Best; siblings Betty, William, Lillian, Charles, (Rosemary) Best and June (Nick) Hansen; nephew Mark Hansen, and partner of 23 years, Cathy Doyle. He is survived by his children Robin Best Welch of Massillon, and Bob Best of Kent; his grandchildren Kyle ("KC") Welch of San Diego and Alexa Welch of Columbus; Kevin and Vicki Kibler and family; and a host of wonderful nieces and nephews. Calling hours will be held on Friday, July 14 ^th from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at Rossi Family Funeral Home. Military honors to follow at 4:30 p.m., and the Last Alarm service by Canton Fire Department at 4:45 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Akron Children's Hospital burn unit, the charity of your choice or by simply honoring Geno with the act of making a memory with a special person in your life.

Rossi (330) 492-5830

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