Eugenio “Gene” Barbiero

Our loving husband, father, papa, brother, uncle, and friend Eugenio Barbiero, known to most as Gene or Geno, peacefully passed away July 28, 2015. He was surrounded by his loving wife and children. Gene was born on Jan. 10, 1937, in Pedivigliano, Italy. He immigrated with his family to Utah when he was 12 years old. He attended South High School and was a proud member of its football team where he played defensive line, just like his boys. Gene helped lead South High to its last state championship in 1954. In 1959, Gene proudly joined the United States Army National Guard and served during the Berlin Crisis. He was honorably discharged in 1964. In the summer of 1968, Gene met the love of his life, Janet Crocco. They were married on Sept. 21, 1968. Together, they had four children and seven grandchildren, with one on the way. His grandchildren were the pride and joy of his life. Gene and Janet moved to Tooele in 1968 where Gene managed Sunset Sports Center and later owned and operated Gene’s Sports Center. Throughout his 40-plus years working in Tooele, Gene kept the youth of Tooele County stocked in shoes, Levi 501s, shotgun shells and fishing bait. He employed many Tooele High students who still hold fond memories of working for Geno. Gene had a big heart and would often help fund sporting equipment, clothing, or shoes for those in need. Gene’s big heart was one of his greatest qualities. Anyone that had the opportunity to visit Gene’s home knew that they were always welcomed there. You couldn’t leave without enjoying some pasta, homemade sausage, or delicious Italian treats. Gene loved being Italian and instilled that love to his children and grandchildren. He upheld many Italian traditions and passed them proudly onto his children. He often joked and said, “There are two kinds of people in the world; Italians — and those who want to be Italian!” Gene is survived by his loving wife of almost 47 years, Janet; children Ann Marie (Dave) Helm, Gina (Ron) Ruiz, Anthony (Julie) Barbiero and Joseph (Kristi) Barbiero; grandchildren Cameron and Alec Wolverton, Neko, Marcus, and Abigail Ruiz, Charles and Stella Barbiero and a granddaughter due in November; brother Louie (Pauline) Barbiero and brothers-in-law Frank (Joan) Crocco and Gene (Gaylene) Crocco. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and great-great-nieces and nephews who loved him dearly. Gene was preceded in death by his parents Saverio and Maria Rosa Barbiero, son-in-law Todd Wolverton, in-laws John and Annie Crocco, sister and brother-in-law Michelina and Jimmy Fuoco, brother-in-law William Crocco, nephew Gene Crocco and his beloved dog Bella. The viewing will be Sunday, Aug. 2, 2015, from 5:30-8 p.m., with Holy Rosary starting at 7 p.m. The funeral will be Aug. 3, 2015 with viewing from 10-11 a.m. and funeral mass at 11. All will be held at St. Marguerite’s Catholic Church, Tooele, Utah. Interment will follow at Tooele Cemetery.