Eugene George Zutell

Eugene "Gene" Zutell, of Prescott, Arizona, passed away on October 17th, 2025. Born on Long Island in 1935 to Ann and George Zutell, Gene lived a life defined by service, adventure, and love of family.

After graduating from high school in 1953, he enlisted in the United States Air Force under the GI Bill. Following his service, he earned a degree in Science Education from Jersey State Teachers College in 1961 and soon Married Josephine Sorrentino of New Jersey.

In 1964, after several years teaching chemistry, Gene was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and began a 21-year Air Force career that took him and his family across the country and overseas. His final assignment was at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. After retiring 1985, he continued his public service with the Arizona State Department of Emergency Services. In 1996, Gene and Josephine moved to Prescott, where they thoroughly enjoyed their friends and activities. Gene especially loved travel, gun collecting, and time spent in his workshop, where he combined patience, humor, and a knack for precision.

Eugene is survived by his loving wife Josephine; children Patricia (Ray) Navas and Elizabeth (John) Carpino; grandchildren Katheryn (Ben) Travis, Adam Navas, Reid Navas, Nicholas Carpino, Mia Carpino, and Matthew Carpino; and great-grandchildren Charlotte and Jack Travis. He was predeceased by his parents Ann and George Zutell, his brother Richard Zutell, and grandson Raymond Navas.

Private services will be held in his honor.