Gene Lloyd Packer

Gene Lloyd Packer, born to Leo and Ina Mecham Packer in Pocatello, ID, on June 20, 1935. His arrival at 5:58 am makes sense as he has always been an early riser, enjoying the quiet morning with a cup of coffee and a game of solitaire. Gene peacefully passed away on the afternoon of May 22, 2026.

He married the love of his life, Gwen Marie Phillips, in Aberdeen on July 9, 1971.

He got caught skipping school, and his mother told him, “Go get a job or go back to school. He came home later that day and said, “Mom, I need lunch. I got a job.” That is where his Union Pacific Railroad career began. He lied about his age to get the job. He later had to correct his age to get ready for retirement. Gene served his country in the United States Air Force for four years as a Jet Engine Mechanic. While in the Air Force, he served in Japan and had many good memories while serving there. After he served his country, he came back to Pocatello and went back to work for the railroad. He retired in 1997.

He returned to ISU to get his high school diploma in March of 1965. In June of 1965, he became a Registered Cosmetician. He also taught beauty school in Montpelier. He would teach beauty school by day and run trains by night.

He served in the General Committee with the Old Timers. He was Secretary Treasurer and moved up the ranks and became the President. The theme of his presidency was Footprints of Time. Being president allowed Gene and Gwen to travel extensively through the Union Pacific System, visiting the clubs all over the United States. During his tenure with the Old Timers Club 15, he, with the help of his wife, prepared and served monthly dinners at the Ed Bailey Hall until it was closed. They served lunch to 50 to 100 members and guests every month, followed by an afternoon of bingo.

He truly loved his career with the railroad. There isn’t a wall in their home that doesn’t have a train of some sort on it. He had many great stories of his time as an engineer with the railroad.

Gene and Gwen have traveled to many places and taken many cruises. Each adventure was remembered fondly. He enjoyed spending time at their cabin in Island Park, relaxing, just enjoying the surroundings. He enjoyed hosting many guests at the cabin, which also included a round of golf.

He was an active member of the Elks in Pocatello. He enjoyed golfing on a regular basis. Gene was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers. He also played football in the Air Force. He loved to dance so light on his feet. Once he had the first dance, he didn’t miss a dance.

Gene was a kind, gracious, and strong man, tall in stature with a great sense of humor. When he spoke, he did so with such meaning, and people listened. He was a great man. He was a treasure.

Gene is survived by his beautiful wife of 55 years and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Ina Packer; and his siblings, Betty, Jim, Bill, Jack, Eleanore, Mike, and Sharon.

The family wishes to thank the Nurses and Physicians of Portneuf Medical Center, Quinn Meadows, and especially the team of Heritage Home Health and Hospice. He, with his personality, made friends with all the people that he came in touch with who cared for him.

Per Gene’s wishes, no services are being held.

The family appreciates all the thoughts and prayers on their behalf.