Walter Gene Stoppenhagen

Walter Gene Stoppenhagen, 89, of Lancaster, Ohio, was called home to be with the Lord on January 13, 2026.

Born on September 11, 1936, in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Gene lived a life rooted in faith, love, and service. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he sought to live according to God’s Word and was an example of strength, humility, and compassion to all who knew him.

Gene attended DePauw University from 1954-1958 and received a B.A. in Physics and Mathematics. He received a Master of Science in Physics from the University of Washington in 1961. He received his Ph. D. in Nuclear Physics from Ohio University in 1968.

Gene served as a Professor of Physics and Physical Science at Ohio University Lancaster from 1970 to 1995, approaching his work with integrity, dedication, and a passion for teaching. He made a lasting impact on countless students and held several leadership roles in addition to his teaching responsibilities. Gene was actively involved in Kiwanis, served as President of his condominium association, and remained committed to serving his community.

He believed strongly in providing for his family and serving others, values he carried into every part of his life. Gene found joy in golfing and traveling with his wife Joyce. Together they traveled over all seven continents, visiting Spain, China, Russia, Amsterdam, Australia, Hawaii, Alaska, and The Dominican Republic. They were among the last tourists to walk on the continent of Antarctica. More than anything, he cherished time spent with his family and fellowship within his faith community. He was a faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and was actively involved in the church.

Gene is survived by his children, Kristine (Tim) Williams of Athens, Ohio, and Jeffrey (Denise) Stoppenhagen of Richfield, Ohio; his grandchildren, Erika Williams of Brooklyn, New York, and Jackson Williams of Denver, Colorado; his sister, Kay (Bert) Schulz of Angola, Indiana; his niece, Amy (Scott) Spooner of Saline, Michigan; and his late-in-life companion, BJ Chilcote. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 62 years, Joyce Stoppenhagen.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held on February 7, 2026, at St. Paul Lutheran Church, located at the corner of Eastwood and Wheeling Streets. Visitation will be at 10:30 a.m. followed by a service at 11:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the LSS Fairfield County Food pantry, https://lssnetworkofhope.org/donate, or your local food pantry, in loving memory of Gene.

Though he will be deeply missed, we trust in God’s promise that we will see him again. His legacy of faith, love, and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him.

To send an online condolence, and sign the guest book, please visit www.funeralhome.com.