Eugene A. "Gene" Farrell

Eugene A. “Gene” Farrell, 88, of Black River, New York, peacefully passed away on January 2, 2024, at Carthage Area Hospital.

He was born on April 21, 1935, in Evans Mills, New York, Gene was the son of Charles and Edith (LePine) Farrell. He graduated from Watertown High School in 1953.

He married the love of his life, Shirley A. Robinson, on November 25, 1953, at the Philadelphia Methodist Church. For two decades, they made their home in Evans Mills before embarking on a new adventure in Fishers Landing, residing there from 1975 to 1994. Later, Shirley and Eugene settled in Tavares, Florida, where they enjoyed the last 25 years of their life together before returning to reside in Black River. 

Gene’s career spanned decades, beginning as an apprentice draftsman in 1954. His journey led him through roles as a design engineer, project engineer, and chief design engineer at various companies, including Black Clawson Co., Frink Snow Plows, Stafford Machines, Carthage Machine Company, and Boise Cascade. He even founded his own company, Elf Manufacturing, designing and building hoists on the St. Lawrence River. Known for his inventive spirit, Gene held several patents, contributing innovations to snow removal equipment, papermaking processes, monorails for airports, cable cars, and ski resorts. He retired in 2000 after leaving a lasting impact on his industry.

Gene enjoyed hunting, fishing, and watching Syracuse basketball on tv.

He is survived by eight loving children: LuAnn M. McAvoy of Watertown, New York; Deborah L. Foote of South Carolina; Sharon L. Farrell of North Carolina; Charles E. “Chuck” Farrell of Watertown, New York; Lori J. Fox and her companion, Lester Bishop, of Evans Mills, New York; Patrick J. “Rick” and Sandy Farrell of Weedsport, New York; Mark R. Farrell and his companion, Laurie Talbot, of Gouverneur, New York; and Scott T. and Dawn Farrell of Clayton, New York. Gene also leaves behind 19 cherished grandchildren, 25 and a half great-grandchildren and a great great grandchild expected in May.

He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Shirley A. Farrell on September 17, 2023, his parents, Charles and Edith Farrell, a sister, Oleta Howland, brothers Jack and Merlin Farrell, and two sons-in-law, Larry McAvoy and Ward Foote.

Arrangements are with the Bruce Funeral Home Black River.

The family will hold a service performed by Pastor Bob Bausum of the Alexandria Bay Baptist Church at the Black River American Legion on Saturday, January 6, at 2 p.m. A celebration of his life will follow, until 5 p.m.

Donations may be made to a charity of one’s choice.

Online condolences can be left at www.brucefh.com.

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