Eugene “Gene” Witkowski peacefully passed away to be with our Lord on Sept. 30, 2025. Gene was born in Cheektowaga, N.Y. His parents moved from New York to California and finally settling in Fort Worth, Texas, where Gene spent his formative years playing school sports, band and Boy Scouts; he was an Eagle Scout.
Gene and his business partner, Ed Kirch, formed the company GEBCO, which was an environmental training business that dealt with asbestos and other hazardous chemical material removal. Gene and his wife, Barbara, retired to Pagosa Springs in 2000.
While enjoying his retirement, Gene was active in the Pagosa Springs Community Choir for several years, as well as singing in the Immaculate Heart of Mary choir. He was also a member of the IHM Parish Council, as well as a member of the parish community. Gene enjoyed visiting with his grandchildren, hunting, fishing, camping and golfing. Some of his favorite pastimes were playing bridge, eating dark chocolate and reading good books.
Gene is survived by his wife of 42 years, Barbara; sister Dr. Joann Trial; stepchildren Gen. Roger H. Watkins (USAF retired) (Leslie), Capt. Walter T. Watkins (USMC) (Dawn), Margaret Watkins Barron (Anthony), Teresa A. Watkins; grandchildren Sgt. Andrew H. Watkins (Army Ranger), Brian Watkins, Catherine Watkins, Thomas E. Watkins, Emily Watkins Pomfret, Anthony Wyatt Barron. Gene is preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Joan Witkowski; Anthony Edward (brother); Dorothy Metz (sister); and Irene Herring (sister).
Mass of Christian burial will be Oct. 25, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. John Paul II Catholic Church in Pagosa Springs, Colo., preceded by the rosary at 9:30 a.m. Interment will be in the spring of 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas. Honorary pallbearers: Gen. Roger H. Watkins, Capt. Walter T. Watkins, Anthony Barron, Sgt. Andrew H. Watkins, Brian E. Watkins, Thomas E. Watkins and Anthony Wyatt Barron.
