Gene G. Phlegar

Gene G. Phlegar died at home on Thursday, December 27, 2018. An only child, he was born in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania on August 20, 1933 to Charles and Irma Phlegar. He attended Penn State University, graduated from the College of Wooster and from Pittsburgh Theological Seminary. He also pursued post graduate work at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. Gene shared 61 years with the love of his life, Nancy (Rusty). They were blessed with 5 children, 10 grandchildren, and 2 great-grandchildren. Gene started his career in ministry as a Presbyterian pastor but found his true calling as a chaplain, providing spiritual and compassionate support to those in need, both at Hospice of Northwest Ohio and at St Lukes Hospital in Maumee, Ohio. He also served as interim pastor for many churches throughout Ohio and Michigan over the years. Music was a prominent part of his life. Gene had a natural gift for playing piano and other keyboards. Many will remember hearing him play alone or as a part of a group at weddings, restaurants and other events around the Toledo area. He especially loved jazz and classical music and was a strong supporter of the arts, especially the Toledo Symphony Orchestra. He also quietly supported numerous other local, regional and global charitable causes. Gene was an avid reader. He loved working cross word puzzlesin ink! He relished a good glass of wine and was fond of a well prepared gourmet meal. After retirement, Gene and his wife made many memories on trips throughout the US, Europe, and Australia. Gene is survived by his wife Nancy K. Phlegar; children Beth Phlegar, Kirk Phlegar (Marnie), Wendy Holmes (JB), Greg Phlegar (Shannon), Mark Phlegar (Natalie); grandchildren Alexandra, Connor, Hayley, Thomas, Eric, Jay (Meghan) Cody (Kathryn) Hunter, Michael, Mercer; great-grandchildren Patrick, Samuel. Visitation will be held at Maison-Dardenne-Walker Funeral Home (Maumee) on Sunday, January 13 from 3 pm to 8 pm. A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 14 at 11 am at the First Presbyterian Church in Perrysburg, Ohio. In lieu of flowers, the family recommends donations to Kitchen For the Poor in Toledo, Hospice of Northwest Ohio, or First Presbyterian Church in Perrysburg. Online Condolences may be made at www.walkerfuneralhomes.com