WORCESTER_____Eugene “Gene” Zittel, 78 of Worcester, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home with family by his side on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
Gene leaves his beloved wife of 54 years, Karen (LeBoeuf), his son, Jonathan P. Zittel and his wife Anastacia (Gene’s favorite daughter-in-law) of Douglas; his daughter, Julie A. Turgeon, her husband Brian, and his granddaughter and Pride and Joy, Alyssa C. Turgeon of Dracut. He also leaves his brother, Frederick J. Zittel and his wife Monica of Sheboygan, WI., and seven nieces and nephews.
Gene was born and raised in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, the son of the late John and Wilma (Karsteadt) Zittel and has lived in Worcester all his adult life. He was a graduate of Clark University. He worked as a banker for many years starting his career at Worcester County National Bank. He became Assistant Vice President at Winchester Savings Bank, retiring in 2014. Gene was a proud U.S. Navy veteran. His duty assignment was serving on the USS Marias AO-57.
For Gene and Karen’s retirement they flew to WI before taking off to the West Coast. He was a previous member of the Lion’s Club and participated in Boy Scouts with Jon. He also loved going on fun rides at water and amusement parks with Julie. Gene had a deep love for life’s simple joys, including going to Galilee Beach, watching movies, camping, maintaining his home and property, and creating memories with his family. Above all his greatest joy was spending time with his granddaughter.
The family wishes to thank Gene and Karen’s caregiver, Kelli Burnor, for the loving care given to Gene.
The funeral will be held on Thursday August 28, 2025, with a Mass at 10:30 am in St. Stephen Church, 357 Grafton Street, Worcester. Burial will follow in Worcester County Memorial Park, Paxton. Calling hours in DIRSA-MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton Street, Worcester are Wednesday, August 27, 2025, from 5 to 7 PM. www.worcesterfuneral.com