Gene Rhodes, local Grange president, affectionately known to many as “The Pumpkin Man has sadly passed away. Gene died Tuesday December 17, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and a lasting impact on the community he loved.
For decades, Gene was an iconic figure in southwest Michigan, known for his warm spirit and larger-than-life presence. His farm, with its distinctive orange barns perched on the hill along M43, became a beacon of warmth and friendliness, especially during the fall months when the pumpkins he grew filled the roadside stands and brought joy to countless families. To all who knew him, Gene was more than a neighbor; he was a friend who treated everyone he met as family.
Gene was a dedicated leader in the local Grange, working tirelessly to support the community and strengthen the bonds that tied it together. Whether he was volunteering at events, lending a hand to those in need, or sharing stories with friends and strangers alike, Gene’s heart was always open, and his generosity knew no bounds.
Those who knew Gene will remember him not only for his work in agriculture and his leadership in the Grange, but also for his infectious laughter, his dedication to his family, and his unwavering sense of humor. He was a man who knew how to make every moment feel special and every person feel valued.
Gene’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his legacy will live on in the community he shaped, the memories he created, and the kindness he shared with all who crossed his path.
Details regarding the memorial service will be provided when it becomes available,
