Family and friends called or sent messages of remembrance today, on what would have been your 83rd birthday, dearest partner.  Many stories, fond memories and tributes to your kindness and generosity warmed my heart.   Gone.  Never forgotten.

Like many of Gene's friends I never imagined we would lose him so soon. I'll never forget the phone call I got from Gene in 1994. It was my last day working for the Detroit Diesel distributor in Albany NY, closing the branch facility on a Saturday for the last time, and feeling dejected.  Out of a "clear blue sky" came a phone call from Gene Enlow asking me if I would like to begin working for him starting Monday, Wow! I will always remember his kind and caring approach, guidance and friendship throughout the years I worked for him. He was the consummate professional. In management meetings he made it a point to show his caring and respect for his employees, and would always say to his managers; you're an important man in your community. I kept in touch with Gene from time to time and he always found time to get back to me. I think about him often... 

Worked with Gene for many years at Penske Power and then Atlantic DDA.
Only fond memories! Condolences to his family. May he RIP. 



Gene was special on many levels.  I reflect often on the fact that he and Shelly set up a blind date for Elaine and I at Purdue. We were married 6 months later and will celebrate our 58th Wedding Anniversary tomorrow.

Of his many qualities I would single out Leadership and Love.  Everything in his life contained those traits.  I would be remiss if I didn't add that Shelley was the perfect companion in a wonderful relationship.

Don Love

Gene befriended me when we moved to Longboat Key. I've never met a kinder soul.  And what a great sense of humor, I'm a better person because of Gene

Shelly,

As you know Gene and I enjoyed each other immensely.   We played basketball together as Speedway Spark Plugs; had the same girl friends, but at different times; were both in  Vietnam, he was an Army Officer in the south I was an Officer in the north with the Special Forces; we counseled each other on girl friends and also on the serious girl friends; we kept each other on our A games.  

Anthony, 

You have a marvelous background and base to carry forward the sparkle, the dignity, the integrity, and love Gene brought into this world.

Joy and Peace to the entire Enlow Family.

Bob

My deepest sympathies to Shelley and Anthony on Gene’s passing.  It has been my good fortune to know Gene and to have worked with him over the past 40 years.  To sum it up, he was a class act on all levels. 

His business skills were exceptional, I know that’s why Roger Penske picked him out of Detroit Diesel to run Penske GM Power.  His insight, common sense and people skills made the transition from General Motors and the midwest to New York City look easy. 

On the personal side traveling with Gene, whether it be fishing, 20 Group meetings, or distributor council meetings was always fun, even during intense discussions with Detroit Diesel and Allision. 

I always new I could bounce all kinds of complex business and legal issues off of Gene and get clearheaded answers. 

While I didn’t know the extent of what Gene did for Kean University, I’m sure as board Chair the university and its students are much better off.  

Gene was an extremely well rounded guy, I’m missing him already.  

    Gene and I met on a street corner, each delivering daily newspapers to our customers that day--there began a 70 year friendship. The high school years were fun; friends, activities, doing dumb stuff, just being kids.
   The adult friendship started after college, and  Gene returning from Viet Nam. Times visiting with Gene and Shelley and friends, and not remembering those times until now. With the birth of our second child, I asked Gene if he and Shelley would take custody of  the children of Lynn and I, if needed. His reply, absolutely, nothing else said, nothing else written.
     We took many fishing trips with friends; mainly Canadian and Michigan waters. He was competitive, wanting to catch the biggest fish, and usually did. He was disciplined about living. When asked how he stayed so trim, he replied, when I reach 185# I quit eating--I start eating at 180#.
    I could write a lot more. I'll finish by saying that Gene had the most zest for life and living, than anyone I have ever known. He was just the best!
    All of us who shared memories have lucked out--Gene Enlow was a part of our life.
                                                                       Wally   

My deepest condolences to the Enlow family on behalf of myself and his Sandhamn Place neighbors on Longboat Key.
Gene was a rock of our community and was never too busy with all of his other pursuits to offer advice and lend a hand.
I will miss his enduring smile and his kindness, not to mention his fleet of exotic cars!  
It does not go unnoticed that his day of passing was 9/11. 
He will now be added to the many others that died on that fateful date that I, on a more personal level, will "never forget".

We were just a couple of kids living in Speedway, Indiana... high school ended, Gene traveled North to Purdue, and I went South to Indiana University, the schools were rivals, but we were not..

We seemed to be able to be apart for long periods of time, then reconnect, and it was as if we had been together the entire time..but that happens with real friends.

We played golf, fished in Canada and Florida, we spent time together, and I treasured it then, and miss it now.  I recall making a putt on 18 that allowed me to win a dollar or two, Gene congratulated me on the round, then took my ball and threw it in the lake.  Another time in Canada we had a $5 bet on the biggest fish caught for the day, I won, we had dinner, Gene went fishing and caught a bigger one!  He would do anything to beat me out of 5 bucks..

He was the best friend a person could ever ask for, I was fortunate enough to grow up in the same town at the same time, and am so grateful for the time we had together..

Friends are hard to find and a treasure to have, I will always be indebted to the friend that has left me... 
Rest in Peace, my friend..

Gene was a mentor to me when I first hired on at Allison and would offer me direction and advice. I have fond and fun memories of Gene. RIP Gene. 

One of the best among us is gone and will be sorely missed.  Gene was a great neighbor and friend, always ready to jump in and help out.  From William Penn, to Blue Jay, to Chester to LBI, we always enjoyed the Enlow's amazing hospitality.  Our heartfelt sympathy to Shelley and Tony.

In Sympathy,

Jim & Sheila Gooch

Gene was my beloved brother and I can’t imagine not seeing his smiling face especially when he was teasing Karen or I. It was a favorite hobby of his. Now God will share him with Bernie in heaven.

Gene was a great friend & gentleman to everyone.  When you were with him, he made you feel special.  You could tell he really cared about you. Shelley & Tony we are sorry for your loss.  Your love & devotion for Gene was the best.  We will remember & love this special special man.
Love you guys Rich & Cindy


Bernice and I are saddened to hear of Genes passing,  We both knew Gene from Warren and Mendham, and really admired his joy of life, and love of his family. It. was my privilege to serve on boards  with Gene and well appreciate his success in business and life.
        Gene lived the American dream , and was a prime example of what makes this such a great country .
                               Sincerely,
                                     Bernice & Dick Gray


I always remember Gene as so friendly up at Roxiticus getting into his great cars.  While I did not know him well, he knew a lot of people well, that I do.   And they all had such high regard for Gene.  My loss for not knowing him better.  My condolences to the Enlow family.  RIP.

Fred Pierce

Kathy and I just heard the sad news of Gene passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Tony and your family. Gene was not only a great friend but a super partner. He was one of the people who continually motivated me to make Detroit Diesel a better company. I will never forget his great smile as we worked together over the years. You should be proud that Gene was known for his integrity, transparency and team work. To me he was a great friend. We will miss him. 
Rp

Gene was A great husband, father and a very generous person who loved all. He fought hard but now his fight is over and he is in the hands of God.

Remember the good times and focus on them because those memories will provide you with the strength to move forward.

God bless you and Tony,

Love Jim

Classy Gene has left his mark on many, especially me.  Denny

My heart aches for you.  You were such a blessing for Uncle Gene.  You two shared a beautiful love story, one that was evident 
and admired by so many.  I will always have wonderful memories of Uncle Gene, and cherish the time we spent with him.  
He will live in our hearts forever!  

I was also blessed to marry Eric, and become part of a very special Enlow Family.  I was a better person for knowing Gene,
as he always welcomed me and made me feel special.  You and Tony should be proud of the care and support you provided.  
Although at times not easy, you never left Gene's side, and you will always have him by your side NOW!  

We love you Aunt Shelley, and send much care and concern your way. May your heart and mind find even the slightest bit of
comfort in knowing Gene is in a peaceful place, smiling down on all of us.

Love,
Susan, Eric, Justis and Avery 💗

Even  though it was expected the news brought sadness and tears .
Loved that man and he will forever be part of the 4 musketeers .
While we all did not want him to suffer any longer the finality is tough to cope with .

Thank you Shelly for taking great care of our good friend for the last few years .Having u there I know was of great comfort to him .
Our thoughts and prayers are with u and the family .Please let us know if a service is planned and where a donation can be made in his memory .

Luv u,

Ernie 

He was an amazing person and had
such a great life. I was lucky to know him and know that he is looking down
at all of us with a smile on his face. I loved his sense of humor and I
always will remember Gene giving Gordy and his friends the business. Always
laughing and such a great soul. I hope you get through this difficult time
and pray for you and your family during this difficult time.

God bless,
Terry

Joan gave me the sad news this morning of Genes passing.  Although we knew this was just a matter of time we were not prepared for the reality of it.  In thinking how we are going to miss him I could not help the tears and as I write this it is happening again.  I have not cried since my parents passed away. It may take a long time to write this note as I have already paused a few times thinking about the many good times we had together and how much I will miss him.
 
 
As Joan will attest to I have said to her many times that Gene was the best friend I had in Florida and Ludington. I regret that I had not met him earlier in my life. For me Gene had all the admirable traits a person could aspire to (except for one).  Quite often we would have a wager as to who could hit the golf ball the farthest off the tee.  As his elder I only asked for a small consideration that being giving me five yards for each year I was older than him.  He was a very generous guy but not in that respect.
 
We are grieving today and we will be for quite sometime.  Gene has been in my prayers since he became ill and he will remain in them for a very long time. I don’t know if I have the credentials to get into Heaven but I know I will find him there if I do and we will renew our friendship.
 
Thank you for taking good care of my friend.
 
Your friend,
 
Lee

I’m so sorry to hear the news.  I know you took great care of him.  I am so thankful for the time we had with him. I really did enjoy working with Gene and getting to know him; he was a great man, trustee and Board Chair, generously serving the university and giving in so many ways. I loved that he loved to laugh and play games and he had a beautiful smile that I will fondly remember.
 
I am glad we got to you know too, I enjoyed our lunches together, and thank you for sharing Gene with us.
Please keep in touch.
 
Sending you our love and prayers.


I’m so sad my buddy is gone.  I’m so happy he’s at peace.  You both were a tremendous gift to him.  You couldn’t have done more and I admire you both very much.  Genes a lucky man and he knew it. Believe me. 
Love to you both.  We all are hurting. 
He was the best. 


Patrick Chisholm

I know two beautiful smiles are together. Two men who truly loved to smile and laugh. 
He's right, of course, about playing the hand you're dealt. You will do it with the beauty and grace the so fills you. 
My heart is with you.

Will hold your hand anytime...


My heart aches with the news of Gene's passing and I am hopeful that you are now in the care, comfort and love of family and friends.  It has been almost nine years since we last saw each other, during an impromptu trip I made to Sarasota.  I have reflected upon that evening with such fond memories. I can remember you were cooking a large pot a pasta sauce when I arrived.  We sat outside and caught up on life and you both were so excited about an upcoming trip to Budapest (I think it was Budapest...LOL)  You took me to dinner a local eatery and I sat in between both you at a round table.  The evening air was crisp and clear and we had such comfortable dinner and conversation.  Before we departed to dinner Gene was so proud to show of his newly completed "man cave" above the garage. 

My childhood is also full of so many fantastic memories of time spent with you and Gene.  You both made my childhood special!  Recently, I was going through some old belongings and came across a small pocket knife and travel alarm clock, both with the Allison's logo.  Those were items given to me by Gene, dare I say 45 years ago.  I know they were just trinket marketing items but as a kid it meant the world to receive them from him.  

I have not been able to sleep tonight - maybe it was a feeling of something not right.  So I got on my computer & now I think I know what my premonition was.  My heart is so heavy.  Gene was such a special man - great sense of humor, generous, intelligent, caring (small things like when he would bring Lee lunch when Lee had had surgery & was basically bedridden).  Lee considered Gene to be his best friend - Lee has many friends but not close ones like Gene.  Amazingly, Lee didn't mind letting people know that he admired Gene the most of all the people he knows.  I'm slightly comforted that you & Tony were there in his last moments.  I know I can't do anything at this moment to help you except pray that you can feel comforted knowing that you two led a wonderful life together.  I will call you in a few days.  Lee is sound asleep.  Will wait until morning to tell him.  Joan

It is with great sadness that we hear the passing of Gene-I am sure he was a fighter and you certainly stood by him till the very end.  I can only imagine how difficult it was for you to watch him.  He was very lucky to have you at his side.  Our most sincere condolences to you and your family-Gene was  a special friend for many years. God Bless you all-Bob & Margaret Lachmann

Gene Enlow will always be THE very special person. I spent the last several days trying find the words to explain why he was so special, and couldn’t find them all … but he was.  
   To simply hear from or see Gene always made me happy and at peace.
   He was positive, friendly, pleasant, helpful and genuinely concerned about everyone he met.  He could talk about anything in a positive way. He was an expert at bringing people together. He was a great listener and advisor … the best. 
   He had the ability and skills to handle any situation. 
   The greatest compliment to receive was when Gene would ask for our opinion, and he did it often, with sincerity. 
   Gene handed out warmth and kindness to everyone he met. 
   He always … will be deeply loved. 
       RIP brother and wonderful friend,
                Don Atkinson



Shelley, can’t express how sorry we were to hear of Genes passing away but comforted to know u & Tony were w/ him. My whole family loved & respected Gene so much. He was so good to all of us & to everyone he knew. Our thoughts are w/ you now. Take care. Just wish u were not so far away.
Love Sandy

A true gentleman.  We were blessed to have known him and share a part of our lives with him. We love you,  Bill and Joyce

My brother-in-law Gene was in my opinion accomplished more than any other person I have ever met.
He graduated from Purdue and and then got his law degree from IU. He married a wonderful young lady named Shelley and they enjoyed life to the fullest. Gene spend time in Viet Nam flying around in helicopters helping solve legal problems with the locals. He then went on to a successful career with Detroit Diesel and then to own his own company. In the mean time they adopted a son named Anthony who Gene was very proud of and who helped take care of his Dad when Gene started to decline. 

The thing I remember Gene most for was making me feel like he was always glad to see me and made me feel like a true friend. He always treated his sisters very generously and showed them a good time. I will always think of all the good things he did and never once mentioned his many accomplishments including
A building named after him and Shelley at Keene University in New Jersey. I could go on and on about all of his attributes but I think you get the ideal that he was a model of what a man is suppose to look and act like and will not be forgotten. 

What a great photo of Gene...just the way I want to remember him.
We became fast friends at the golf club and enjoyed much golf, fishing, and meals, especially ice cream.
Gene made everything we did better. I can't recall ever seeing him get angry. He was always the calm, thoughtful one that everyone went to for advice...even the president of a college.
I will miss my friend...I hope they have fast cars in heaven.

Worked with Gene for many years.  He was a wonderful man.  He was  kind, generous and trustworthy.    We had many conversations and not just about work.  He was the kind of man you could talk to him about anything and tell him anything and it went no further than his office.  He was there for support when I needed him.  Sorry he is gone.  He will be missed by a lot of people.  RIP Gene.

OBITUARY

Eugene "Gene" Charles Enlow

January 10, 1941 – September 11, 2021

Dorsey - E. Earl Smith Funeral Home and Lake Worth Memory Gardens

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