Eugene S. Licker

Eugene S. Licker, age 93, of Charlottesville, passed away Thursday, December 7th, 2023.
Gene was born in Paterson, New Jersey to Phillip and Freda Licker on May 19th, 1930. He attended Paterson Public Schools for elementary and secondary education and received his Bachelor’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson. He received his Master’s Degree from Columbia University in New York City.

Gene served his country during the Korean War from 1952 to 1954 as a member of the 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division both in Korea and in Japan. He was discharged from the Army in 1954 as a Staff Sergeant (E-6)

After his time in the Army, Gene taught high school in his native Paterson, New Jersey as a History teacher until his retirement in 1989. In addition to teaching, Gene also started his own business in 1962. He was the Founder and President of Sports Films Inc, which was a motion picture film processing lab specializing in films of football and basketball games for both college and high school teams. Over 100 schools in the northern New Jersey area used his services including Seton Hall, St John’s, Fairleigh Dickinson,Columbia, and Fordham. He also supplied film services to the New York Giants football team and professional basketball teams in the ABA. After 31 years Gene retired this business in 1993.

Gene was married to the love of his life, Catherine McBride Licker, from 1964 until her passing in 2012. In addition to Cathy he was also preceded in death by his brother Edward.

Gene will be greatly missed by his family and friends, including his sister-in-law Rita, and nieces Mary Beth Ruffing and Jamie Ruffing Williams, as well as their families. While we are all saddened by his loss, we are also appreciative of being a part of his rich and full life. He will be greatly missed.