Otto E. "Gene" Filsinger, 82, of Troy, Missouri, left this earth for his heavenly home on Sunday, January 26, 2025. Born on April 17, 1942, in Elgin, Nebraska, to Otto and Gladys (Fuller) Filsinger, Gene was the oldest of five children. His early years were spent in Elgin before the family relocated to Wellsville, Missouri, in 1954.

Gene's life took a significant turn through his friendship with George Prior, which led him to meet the love of his life, Velma (Creech). The two were united in marriage on August 6, 1960, in Troy. They initially made their home in Wellsville, where Gene began his career as a skilled mechanic. Known for his exceptional talent with diesel engines, automobiles, heavy equipment, and tractors, Gene's expertise took him far and wide in his work.

He was also highly regarded as a master welder, sharing his knowledge with the next generation by teaching at Lewis and Clark Tech. Gene played a key role in setting up GM's high-tech robotic system and was widely respected for his contributions to the industry

In 1986, Gene took another bold step, founding Filsinger Excavating Co. with his son, Mel. Over the years, he became known for his dedication to hard work, his ingenuity, and his commitment to quality. In fact, Gene often said his favorite job was working in excavation—one that allowed him to spend countless hours alongside his son, building something meaningful together.

After retiring, Gene continued to share his passion for teaching, as he taught welding in a local Christian school and to homeschoolers in the local community.

Gene was also a dedicated and active member of the Troy Holiness Church, where he always offered a helping hand and shared his skills with others. He will be remembered for his quiet generosity, his wisdom, and his unwavering faith.

Above all, Gene cherished his family. As a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, his greatest joy was spending time with his loved ones. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Gene is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Velma (Creech) Filsinger; his children, Cherie (Mike) Lavy of Troy, Pamela Potter of Moscow Mills, Cindy (Stephen) Jones of Troy, and Melvin (Cathy) Filsinger of Troy ; 12 grandchildren; 30 great-grandchildren; a great-great- grandchild to be born in March and three siblings: Donna (Bob) Voris of Independence, Kansas, Kenneth (Shirley) Filsinger of Sarcoxie, Missouri, Janice Meek of Elk City, Kansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Ruth Filsinger and grandson, Joshua Filsinger. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, from 4 to 8 p.m., and again on Friday, January 31, 2025, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, 1304 Boone Street, Troy, MO 63379.

A funeral service will follow at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, January 31, 2025, at the funeral home, with Rev. George Prior and Rev. David Woods, officiating. Serving as pallbearers will be Brad Lavy, Neil Lavy, Nathan Filsinger, Kyle Jones, Ethan Schulte, and Jacob Goins. Interment will take place at Old Alexandria Cemetery in Troy. Memorial contributions may be made to Troy Holiness School, c/o McCoy-Blossom Funeral Homes & Crematory, Troy. Friends and family are invited to sign on online guest register at mccoyblossomfh.com