Obituary of Eugene Lloyd Stoffel

Eugene Lloyd Stoffel (More commonly known as Gene), 94, of Emmett, Idaho passed away at St. Luke’s Hospital in Nampa, Idaho on Friday, January 5, 2024. Gene was born on August 9th, 1929 to Pearl Stoffel and Amelia Anna Louise Walter in Randolph, Kansas and was the last surviving sibling of 13 children in his family.

Three days after his 18th birthday, Gene joined the United States Army Air Corp in Kansas and was later transferred to the United States Air Force in 1947 where he was stationed at Williams Air Force Base, near Chandler, AZ in the 541st Air Force Band. While stationed here Gene met Lu Ella Stapley. They were married on November 2nd, 1950 and were later sealed in the Mesa Arizona Temple for time and all eternity.

After being discharged in 1951, Gene continued his career as a musician in several bands playing his 5-string stand-up bass and later bass guitar, he was also employed with Mountain Bell, whom he retired from in 1987. Post-retirement he continued his music career, in addition spent time researching family genealogy, woodworking, spent time with his family, and actively served his church including two full-time missions with spouse, Lu Ella in Salt Lake City, UT.

Gene is predeceased in death by his “sweetheart” of 64 years, Lu Ella, his son Keith, and grandson, James. Gene is survived by his children: Mark, Dennis (Missy), Wade (Jeanette), and Lisa Benney; in addition to 12 grandchildren and 27 great-grandchildren.

A viewing in honor of Gene will be held Saturday, January 20, 2024, 10:00 AM, with the funeral service to begin at 11:00 AM, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints chapel located at 1430 N. Grand, Mesa, AZ. Immediately following these services will be a graveside service at the Mesa Cemetery, 1212 N. Center Street, Mesa, AZ.