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His greatest joys in life were his family and the great outdoors.

Eugene Micheal Wittlieff, age 80, of Manistee, passed away unexpectedly on September 8th and went to be with the Lord.

Gene was born in 1945, the son of the late Floyd and Edith Wittlieff. He answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy, where he proudly served as a radioman on USS Bon Homme Richard for 3 1/2 years. Following his military service, Gene began a long and dedicated career at Morton Salt, where he spent 31 years retiring as plant operator.

Gene is survived by his wife of more than 24 years, Marcy Edel; his children Raymond (Sally), Marcel (Candace), Anthony (Deana), and Christopher (Martha); the mother of his children, Isabella; and his stepchildren, Jennifer (Ted) Kroepel, Michelle Gillespie, and Patrick (Brooke) Gillespie. He is also survived by his siblings, Raymond (Mary) Wittlieff, Anthonette Stendel, Julie (Robert) Gould, and Barbara (Richard) Witkowski, and their families, as well as his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him countless moments of happiness and pride. He is also survived by his dear friend, Chuck Owens. He was preceded in death by his brother-in-law Floyd Stendel.

Gene was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. His greatest joys in life were his family and the great outdoors. He was an avid hunter and looked forward every year to the start of deer season, especially the tradition of gathering at deer camp with family.

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He looked forward every year to the start of deer season, especially the tradition of gathering at deer camp with family.

Gene had a warmth and kindness that could be felt by everyone around him. He loved to tell stories, share a laugh, and make people smile. His generosity even extended to random children that crossed his path, they will remember him as the man who would happily give them a precious quarter for their piggy bank. It was a small gesture, but one that perfectly reflected Gene's generous heart.

Above all, Gene loved his family. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to be shared through the stories, traditions, and laughter he gave to those around him. His presence will be deeply missed, but his love and legacy will live on through his family and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, Sept. 21, 2026 at St Joseph Catholic Church in Manistee with Rev. James Bearss celebrant. Burial will follow at Mt. Carmel also in Manistee where members of the Manistee County United Veterans Council will present graveside military honors. Immediately following burial services, a luncheon provided by Zupin Catering of Manistee will be held at the St. Joseph Parish Center for a meal and time of fellowship. The family will be at the church 1 hour prior to Gene’s funeral Mass on Monday to receive friends.

The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.