Leslie Eugene â??Gene�? Kilmer

Age 74 of Elmira, NY passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2003 at his home with friends at his side. ?Gene? as he was affectionately known, was born March 21, 1929 in Elmira the son of the late Leslie Jonas and Rosella (Ayers) Kilmer. His brother, Joseph who died in England during WW II and most recently his buddy, Bill Ramsdell on April 25, 2003, also preceded him in death. His niece Jackie and many friends survive him. ?Gene? graduated from St. Patrick?s School and Elmira Free Academy in 1946. He attended Cornell University for two years, and then transferred to LaMoyne University where he received his Bachelor?s Degree and graduated from Notre Dame with a Masters Degree in history in 1955. He had a fantastic command of the English language. ?Gene? was very concerned about physical fitness and a long time member of the YMCA. He was known to bike for great distances and was seen walking all over downtown Elmira. He enjoyed a friendly game of tennis and a challenging game of pool with his friends. He was a champion chess player, talented Bridge player and enjoyed a good game of backgammon. He had an amazing knowledge of old, classic movies, which he enjoyed sharing with his friends. A Graveside Memorial Service, honoring ?Gene?s? life, will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2003 at 11:00 AM in St. Peter and Paul?s Cemetery. His friend, the Reverend Donald R. Hoff will officiate. In lieu of flowers Memorial Contributions may be directed to the YMCA 425 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira, NY 14904 or to Southern Tier Hospice 11751 Corning Road Corning, NY 14830. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Olthof Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 Pennsylvania Ave. Elmira. NY. A ?Candle of Remembrance? may be left for the family at www.olthof.com.