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BORN
1944
DIED
2025
Eugene Ference Obituary
August 12, 1944 - June 28, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Eugene A. Ference, who departed this life on June 28 at the age of 80 in Weston, CT. A beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, Eugene touched the lives of many with his warmth, integrity, wisdom, and unwavering kindness.
Born on August 12, 1944, in Bridgeport, Eugene was the son of Andrew and Margaret Ference. He grew up in Weston where he developed a strong work ethic and deep sense of community that stayed with him throughout his life, beginning with High School when he attended the New York Military Academy and then went on to study in England and France. After graduating from Cornell University's School of Hotel Administration with his Ph.D., Eugene pursued a career in hospitality management training where he was widely regarded as a leader in his field.
Eugene married the love of his life, Micheline (Michou) Laurion and together they shared a world filled with love and adventure. They cherished their extended family members. Eugene was a proud and devoted brother and uncle, enjoying time together and finding joy in the accomplishments and happiness of his loved ones.
He will be remembered for his generous spirit, quiet strength, his thoughtful, gentle sense of humor, and his love of artwork and artifacts from around the globe. Whether involved in one of his many building projects, or sharing stories over fine wine, Eugene made the world a better place just by being in it-and while working in and visiting 93 countries.
He is lovingly remembered by his brother, Laurence Ference and his wife Joann; nephew Stephen and his wife Bethany and great-nieces Felicity and Charlotte Ference; nephew Scott Ference; niece Karen Perno (née Ference) and husband James; nephew Jason Ference; and nephew Bruno Laurion and partner Catherine Landry; all of whom brought him great joy and who will miss him dearly.
He was preceded in death by his father, Andrew, and mother Margaret Ference, his wife of many years, Michou, and his brother Edward.
Though Eugene has left this earthly life, his legacy of love, faith, and kindness will live on in all those he touched around the world.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Eugene Ference
4 Entries
Jack Serafin
August 6, 2025
"We are all here for a micro instant. We don´t fret about the eternity which preceded us, and we obsess about the eternity to follow. Yet, in the 4fh dimension of time, each moment is also an eternity. For us, mere mortals, the shame is when we waste those moments, as the sum total reverberates forever, happy or sad, as it emanated from the beginning. It is not how long we live which matters, but rather how we live."
On behalf of myself, and the Regiment of Graduates, his many friends, students, fellow instructors, classmates, and admirers, I would like to extend our deepest condolences on your loss. Eugene was revered by his peers, especially his peers and both cadets and graduates of his service at the Academy. He earned lifelong respect and admiration of all whom encountered him. His undying support, guidance, and friendship was akin to a lantern in the night. May you be comforted, as we will be, and have been, with fond memories of his commitment to duty, friendship, service, and love.
Jack Serafin
NYMA, Class of 1966
President Regiment of Graduates
Susan Feliciano
August 3, 2025
We lived next door to Gene and Michou for 35 years, sharing the Saugatuck River and meadow behind our homes.
We could go months without seeing each other, typical in our town, but when we did get together their warmth, energy and affection was so nourishing to our family as they were an important part of it. Just knowing they were there was comforting to us for so longwe’d oftentimes share that thought and promise to make plans
When Michou passed suddenly, we knew Gene was lost. We had dinner together, brought meals over, tried fruitlessly to fill a massive void but after a while, he didn’t answer our phone calls. I figured he was traveling because that was always part of his agenda
We are shocked and heartsick. Rest in peace, dear friend. I know you’re finally with your darling Michou.
Clifford Klinkhammer
July 27, 2025
It was sad to hear of his passing. He was making plans to visit the west coast and us in Eugene, Oregon. We will miss him as we shared many good times and memories.
Tom Readey
July 27, 2025
Larry and Family: Please accept our deepest sympathy on the passing of Gene. We will always remember your family - mom, dad, Gene, Edward and visits to your lovely home in Weston. R.I.P. Gene. The Readey Family
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