Gene Raymond “Karch” Karcher

Gene Raymond “Karch” Karcher, 71 passed away at his residence surrounded by his loving family on Monday, April 11, 2016 following a lengthy illness.

He was born in East Liverpool on October 11, 1944 a son to the late Donald and Ida (Rogers) Karcher. Living his entire life in this area, he was a 1963 graduate of East Liverpool High School and worked as a Machinist for Jeffco before retiring in 2000.  Gene was a Veteran of the United States Navy, loved being outdoors fishing with his favorite “Co-pilot” Donnie Petrie, who was like a son, camping with family and hunting.  He loved playing cards until all hours of the night, playing the guitar and painting.

He is survived by a devoted daughter: Donna Karcher of East Liverpool, OH; one sister:  Nancy Sue Hissam of Lisbon, OH; many nieces and nephews along with two special great nieces and one special great nephew Makenzie, Mollie and Mason along with their mother Jennifer Petrie who were like his grandchildren whom brought joy and laughter to his life.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Linda “Kookie” Karcher whom he married June 22, 1968 and a sister: Sandy Smith.

Services will be held at the Calcutta Chapel of the Martin MacLean Altmeyer Funeral Homes on Wednesday, April 20, 2016 at 11 A.M. with Pastor Kenny Cowdery officiating. Burial will follow in Columbiana County Memorial Park where the Tri-State Burial Group will accord full military honors.  A luncheon will follow at the Glenmoor American Legion.

Family will be present to receive friends at the Calcutta Funeral Home on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 P.M. In lieu of flowers family requests memorial donations be made to help with final expenses.  Donations may be made at www.tmcfunding.com

Family and friends may view this obituary, sign the guest book or send condolences online at www.martinmacleanaltmeyer.com or by visiting the funeral homes Facebook page.