Eugene Edward Kissner Sr.

Celebrating the Life of Eugene Edward “Gene” Kissner, Sr.

Eugene Edward “Gene” Kissner, Sr., born in Coaldale, Pennsylvania, grew up in Jim Thorpe-roots he carried proudly throughout his life. The son of William J. Kissner and Marie (Rohn) Kissner, Gene lived by the values of hard work, self-reliance, and service to country.

After graduating from Jim Thorpe High School, Gene joined the United States Navy in 1957, beginning a distinguished 22-year career. While stationed in Washington, D.C., he met Sybil Hamman, who became his wife and partner of more than 65 years. Gene rose through the enlisted ranks while serving with the Naval Security Group in Cyprus, the Philippines, Taiwan, Guam, Scotland, and multiple U.S. duty stations including Washington, D.C.; Bremerton, Washington; and NAS Jacksonville, Florida. He achieved the rank of Master Chief Petty Officer (E9)-at the time, the youngest serving Master Chief in the Navy.

Following his military retirement, Gene earned his BBA from the University of North Florida and continued his commitment to public service with the U.S. Navy Audit Service and the Department of Defense Inspector General.

Upon settling in Sebring, Gene devoted himself to community service. He became a lifetime member and volunteer at the Military Sea Services Museum and contributed more than 20 years to Lake Watch, the University of Florida’s water-quality monitoring program. Gene was also a Life Member of American Legion Post 304 in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, and an active member of the Sebring Moose Lodge, the Sebring Elks Club, the Fleet Reserve Association, and the U.S. Naval Cryptologic Veterans Association. These memberships reflected his lifelong commitment to service, fellowship, and supporting those who served alongside him.

Family

Gene is survived by his wife Sybil; sons Eugene E. Kissner, Jr. (Linda) and Gerald Kissner (Colleen); and grandsons Dylan and Mason, who knew him lovingly as “Pop-Pop”. He is also survived by sisters Patricia Herman and Catherine Schweibinz. He was preceded in death by sisters Joan Barber, Rosemarie Harisson, and brother William J. Kissner, Jr.

His Legacy

Gene lived with quiet strength and unwavering dedication. He mentored many throughout his Navy and civilian careers, guided his family with high expectations and gentle encouragement, and modeled what it means to be a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His life was a testament to service both to country and community.

In Honor of Gene

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to organizations supporting veterans or to the Military Sea Services Museum. Even more meaningful would be to volunteer your time to a cause Gene valued deeply.

Services

There will be a visitation held at Stephenson Nelson Funeral Home in Sebring on September 8, 2026, at 12:00 pm and service starting at 1:00 pm. Private family graveside service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery on September 9, 2026.

“Fair Winds and Following Seas”

Arrangements entrusted to: Stephenson-Nelson Funeral Home Sebring, Florida www.stephensonnelsonfh.com