Russell Eugene “Gene” Shearer

Russell Eugene “Gene” Shearer, 81, of East Canton, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at Aultman Hospital. He was born November 14, 1944, in East Canton, Ohio, to the late Russell and Marie (Stinchcomb) Shearer.

Gene was raised on the Shearer Dairy Farm, where he developed a strong work ethic that remained with him throughout his life. A 1963 graduate of East Canton High School, he began his career with Sugardale Foods before being drafted into the United States Army. Gene proudly served his country with the First Cavalry Division (Airmobile) during the Vietnam War. Following his honorable service, he returned to Sugardale Foods, where he dedicated over 41 years before retiring.

In retirement, Gene found great joy in helping others, often working out of his home garage repairing vehicles for family, friends, and neighbors. He had a natural ability to diagnose problems and took great pride in getting people safely back on the road.

Gene was a devoted member of Centenary United Methodist Church in Waynesburg, where he married the love of his life, Carolyn Ickes. He was also a member of the Buckeye Corvette Club and had a lifelong passion for Chevrolet vehicles, especially Corvettes. He enjoyed attending car shows and sharing his enthusiasm with fellow enthusiasts.

Above all, Gene cherished time with his family. He loved traveling across the country, especially to NASCAR races and beach destinations. He also enjoyed snowmobiling and boating with family and friends. Lake Mohawk held a special place in his heart, where he spent many cherished days water skiing with his family.

In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his sisters-in-law, Marilyn Shearer and Chris Shearer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Carolyn (Ickes) Shearer, whom he married on May 11, 1968; his daughter, Darla (Ty Gowins) Salvino; his son, Dave (Kim) Shearer; his grandson, Kyle Goodwill; his granddaughters, Tara Goodwill and Kylie Shearer; his brothers, Richard Shearer and Don Shearer; three nephews, Rod (Christine) Shearer, Todd (Amy) Shearer, Donny (Morgan) Shearer Jr.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Sanders Funeral Home, 218 E. Nassau St., East Canton, and again on Thursday from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. Funeral services will take place at the funeral home on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Linda Slutz officiating. Gene will be laid to rest at Mapleton Cemetery.

Arrangements are entrusted to Sanders Funeral Home, 218 E. Nassau St., East Canton, Ohio 44730. Family and friends may offer condolences and share memories at:

sandersfuneralhomes.com

(330) 488-0222