Gene Podkova, age 80, of Currie, NC passed away on Saturday, May 21, 2022 at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center in Wilmington, NC.

He was born on June 27, 1941 in Czechoslovakia to the late Josef Podkova and Anna Smidlova Podkova.

Gene and his entire family fled in 1949 to escape Communism. He lived in a refugee camp for 3 years in Nuremberg, Germany and then spent a year in England. In 1953, Gene settled in the United States in Wahoo, NE. He then moved to Washington, D.C. in 1954. Gene was a roofer for 50 years. He loved riding motorcycles and driving his classic cars. Gene was a member of Sun Coast Cruisers Car Club. Most of all, he was a loving father of his two daughters.

Gene is survived by his loving girlfriend and his world, Pat Hora; daughter, Stacy Riemer (Joey); son-in-law, John Gugliotta; sisters, Hana Stone and Mira Hoops (Billy); grandchildren, Brady Riemer and Casey Riemer; and many loving nieces, nephews and friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife of over 50 years, Beverly Cohen Podkova; and daughter, Francine Gugliotta.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

Charitable contributions may be made to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at AFSP.org.

Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family by selecting Tribute Wall above.

Quinn McGowen Funeral Home – Wilmington

910-794-7171