Eugene H. "Gene" Traxler, 86, of Columbia Station, passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at the Renaissance Health Center in Olmsted Township after a brief illness. Gene was a lifelong resident of Grafton and was a member of the first graduating class of Midview High School in 1956. He attended Findlay University where he played basketball all four years and received his bachelor's degree in teaching. In 1968, he married his sweetheart, Kathleen (nee: Proa). Gene was a teacher at Brookside High School for 38 years. In 2002, he was inducted into the Who's Who among American teachers. After retiring from teaching he worked for the Lorain County Metro Parks for 18 years. He was an avid outdoorsman and enjoyed hunting with his dogs, playing golf and cards, and spending time with family and friends. Survivors include his wife; son, Kristofer Traxler; daughter, Stacy Traxler; brothers, Larry (Judy) Traxler and Allen (Gayle) Traxler; grandchildren, Emily (Aarron) Tilley, Allison (Tony Wey) Kucera, Trenton and Tyler Traxler; great-grandchildren Harley and Grayson Tilley. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Dorothea (nee: Johnson); son, Erik Traxler in 2024; daughter-in-law, Sharon Traxler; son-in-law, Pete Setser; and sister, Patricia Norris. Family will receive friends on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 10 a.m. until Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church 708 Erie Street in Grafton. Reverend Father John P. Seabold, pastor, will be the celebrant.  Burial at St. Mary Cemetery in Grafton will take place at a later date. Memorial contributions in Gene's name can be sent to Lorain County Metro Parks c/o Public Information Officer 12882 Diagonal Road LaGrange, Ohio 44050. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.laubenthalmercado.com. Arrangements entrusted to Laubenthal Mercado Funeral Home in Elyria.