LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Eugene F. Magoon passed away on Jan. 22, 2014, at the age of 88.

He was born on Feb. 10, 1925, in Sanger, Calif., to the late Chester and Nina Magoon.

Gene served in World War II as a sergeant in the infantry in Europe and received two Purple Hearts.

Upon his return he attended Fresno State and received a bachelor's degree in science, then went on to attain a PhD in chemistry at Oregon State.

Gene worked as a research scientist for Shell Development in Emeryville before moving to Lower Lake in 1971, where he owned and operated Magoon's General Store, and Magoon's West Custom Jewelry and Art Gallery.

He also owned a dulcimer manufacturing business, Black Mountain Instruments, in partnership with Dave Johnston; a bookstore, Jabberwocky Books, in partnership with Ginger Ingersoll and Charlotte Griswold; the Lake Art Center in Clearlake, in partnership with Mel Flyer and Joan Casserly; and was a founding member of the Upstairs Gallery in Lakeport, and the Vines Gallery in Calistoga.

His creative drive compelled him to teach himself woodworking, stained glass, sculpture and jewelry making. He was an avid reader, and loved sailing, participating in many races as a member of the Konocti Bay Sailing Club.

Gene served his community as a fireman for the Lower Lake Volunteer Fire Department, on the Lake County Planning Committee, 10 years as a board member of the Lower Lake County Water District and 13 years as a school board member for the Konocti Unified School District.

He also was a charter member of the Clear Lake Rotary Club, with perfect attendance for 40 years, and a Paul Harris Fellow.

Gene is survived by his wife, Judy; children, Randy (Nancy) Magoon, Kerry (Jamie) Magoon, Jamie (Karen) Gekas, Joni (Mike) Epidendio, Julie Jones (Casey) Wasem, and Steve (Heather) Johnson; brother, Gerald Magoon; two nephews; 15 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by two daughters, Janice Magoon and Pegeen Magoon Murphy, and a granddaughter.

Gene was an intelligent, creative, sociable individual with a wonderful sense of humor. He will be missed by his family, friends and community.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2014, at 11:30 a.m. at the Lower Lake Community United Methodist Church, 16255 Second St. A reception will follow at the social hall adjacent to the church.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Gene Magoon Memorial Scholarship Fund for the Visual Arts through the Clear Lake Rotary Club, or to the charity of your choice.