Orville "Gene" Trine, age 87 of Burr Oak, born on May 3, 1939, in Hamburg, Missouri, passed away on June 4, 2026, at Sturgis Hospital. Gene entered this world on a houseboat as a son to David M. and Ruth I. (Hartwig) Trine.

He graduated from Colon High School with the class of 1957. Shortly after, on July 13, 1958, Gene married Jane Marie Westendorf at the Colon Church of Christ. Jane was his loving wife until she preceded him in death on January 12, 2024.

Gene dedicated much of his life to his work at Kirsch Co. in Sturgis, Michigan, where he served as a tool and die maker. During his tenure, he also took on the role of UAW President, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to his fellow workers. He retired in 2001 after many years of service.

Outside of work, Gene was passionate about the outdoors. He was an avid outdoorsman, deer hunter, and fisherman. He also enjoyed helping others and was known as a loving and caring husband, father, and grandfather. He was a member of the Michigan Steelheaders Association, where he shared his enthusiasm for fishing.

Gene is survived by his children, Wallace (Debi Brusatori) Trine of East China, Michigan, and Rodney (Brenda) Trine of Luther, Michigan. He was a proud grandfather to Jessica Bohm, Emily Wolf, and Christina Amb, and a great-grandfather to Archer Bohm. Gene’s siblings include Earl Trine, Jim Trine, Carolyn Grabe, LuLu Grabe, Pat Clouse, Paul Trine, Larry Trine, and Ruth Brandt.

He was preceded in death not only by his wife but also by his parents, David M. and Ruth I. (Hartwig) Trine, his brother David Trine, and his sister Dorris Hassenger.

A visitation will be held on June 11, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Schipper Funeral Home Ltd, located at 308 S Blackstone Ave in Colon, Michigan. Following this, a funeral service will take place at the same location from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

Orville "Gene" Trine will be remembered for his warm heart, dedication to his family and community, and his love for the outdoors. He touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed.