Columbus, OH — Gene C. Trees, 74, of Marysville, Ohio, and formerly of Lexington, Ky., died May 10, 2021, at OSU Hospitals in Columbus, following a brief illness, surrounded by his loving family.

Mr. Trees was a former employee of Columbus Gas in Columbus where he retired as a controller.

He was born July 13, 1946, in Columbus, to the late Frederick G. and Esther E. Migazzi Trees. He was a 1964 graduate of Fairbanks High School in Milford Center where he lettered in basketball, and served in the Air Force during the Vietnam War.

He was known as “The Captain” by his close friends as he always had a good word to say, a joke to share, or a smile to help brighten your day.

A sportsman at heart, he was an avid golfer and enjoyed simulcast harness racing to spend his leisure time. His interest in horses was an inherited love given to him by his father, who was a well-known trainer, and his grandfather, who was a track maintenance supervisor at Scioto Downs.

In recent times, upon moving back home, he cherished his time spent with his twin sister, walking around their development, or sharing a major league baseball game together.

He is survived by his sisters, Judith A. Trees Brake and Carson (Dick) Stratton; brothers, Gale (Linda) and Grayling (Sandra); and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

A graveside memorial service will be held at a later date at the Milford Center Cemetery with his brother Grayling as the officiant. Services will be announced. Ingram Funeral Home in Marysville is assisting the family. Condolences may be expressed at www.ingramfuneralservice.com.