Eugene Contreras

Eugene “Gene” Rangel Contreras, 67, of Avondale, passed away peacefully on Thursday, March 28, 2024, in Goodyear, Arizona. Gene was born on December 6, 1956, in Stockton, CA. He was the fourth of six children born to Ernesto and Rose Contreras. He was named after his maternal grandfather (and boy, did he live up to the “Rangel” reputation).

He began his early childhood education at Luther Burbank Grammar School. He attended kindergarten and secondary education with his younger brother, Joaquin “Jack” Contreras. Gene and Jack were inseparable forming an unbreakable brotherly bond that lasted a lifetime. When his family moved to Arizona in 1963, He continued his education at Avondale Elementary School. Gene graduated from Agua Fria Union High School in 1975, where he was active in the high school band, showcasing his talent on the trumpet. After high school, Gene began a long and fulfilling career at Lincoln Laser, where he dedicated 19 years of his life.

Outside of work, Gene had a passion for music that knew no bounds, often impressing others with his ability to play the guitar and recall artists and song releases with precision. And in his leisure time, Gene was a master in the kitchen, especially when it came to cooking his famous Duck à l'orange every Easter or crafting Italian tamales for Christmas. He had a love for Italian cuisine, with lasagna being his favorite dish. Gene's culinary skills were matched only by his sense of style, as he loved dressing up and slicking back his hair combed precisely with Three Flowers.

He enjoyed spending time with friends and family, particularly his cousin Eddie Del Castillo, with whom he shared countless memorable moments. In his later years, Gene found solace and joy in attending Catholic services at the center where he resided, relishing in the international luncheons prepared by his family, and inviting all his friends from the center to join in the festivities. Gene's passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will be cherished forever by his loving family, including his siblings, nieces, nephews, and countless friends. Gene was predeceased by his father Ernesto, mother Rose, and brother Ernest Contreras. He is survived by his brothers, Joaquin Contreras, Chris Contreras (Janie), sisters, Lupe Mascarenas (Rene), Marina Salazar (Paul Romero) and many nephews and nieces.

A funeral service to celebrate Gene's remarkable life will be held at Avenidas Funeral Chapel, 522 East Western Avenue, Avondale, 85323 on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM with a reception to follow at La Mision Jubilee Center, 11147 West Buckeye Road, Avondale, 85323. Gene Contreras lived his life with passion, love, and a spirit of adventure, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and joy that will continue to inspire all who knew him.