Eugene Vetter, 85, passed away peacefully at home with his wife by his side on April 6, 2022. His strong belief in God provided him immeasurable support, and the presence at his side of loving family and friends gave him comfort and peace in his final days.

Gene was born in West View, Pennsylvania to Eugene and Ida Vetter on June 7, 1936. He was immersed in his church community at a young age, and it was there where he felt his calling from God to seek his education in ministry. He attended Lutheran Theological Seminary (Trinity Seminary) at Capital University where he earned his Master of Divinity degree. He was ordained by the American Lutheran Church.

Gene served as Associate Pastor at Grace Lutheran Church, Miami Springs, Florida, from 1962 – 1966. He accepted a call to serve Messiah Lutheran Church in Panama City, Florida, where he remained until 1979 when he was called to form a new church in East Lake Tarpon, Palm Harbor, Florida. Under his guidance, the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection (LCR) was founded. In 2012, Pastor Vetter celebrated 50 years of ministry. He served LCR faithfully until retirement. For Gene, retirement gave him the gift of more time with those he loved, both family and friends.

Gene was a humble, kind man with an incredible sense of humor. He was a man who loved his family deeply and well. He was a natural educator and was always able to find the right answer – no matter the problem. Gene was a compassionate listener and spoke with sincerity. He often put his personal needs aside to make sure those he loved were cared for. He was a voracious reader and never wanted to stop learning. He loved nature, photography, and his beloved pets. But most of all, “Opa” loved to spend time with his grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in his heart.

He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Diane; children Michael, Melanie, Jennifer, Kristofor, and Bethany; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Lutheran Disaster Response. A donation may be placed through the website by clicking Eastern Europe Crisis. If you prefer to donate directly, please make checks payable to Lutheran Disaster Response.

Write “Eastern Europe Crisis Response” on your check’s memo line. Mail directly to:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

PO Box 1809

Merrifield, VA 22116-8009

Gifts designated to “Eastern Europe Crisis” will be used in full (100%) for direct response to assist those affected in Ukraine.

You may also offer a donation in memory of Gene Vetter to King of Kings Lutheran Church, 10337 US-19, Port Richey, Fl., 34668.