Obituary of Eugene F. Sensel

Dr. Eugene F. Sensel, Jr., 87, of Millport, NY, passed away on Sunday, July 3, 2022 at his home. He was born in Elmira, NY on October 6, 1934, the son of Eugene and Hilda (Combs) Sensel. Gene graduated from Odessa-Montour Central School with the class of 1952 and received his Doctorate from Cornell University. He served with the US Army from 1957-1959. Gene was Principal at Odessa-Montour for many years. He later was a professor at Elmira College, Cornell University and Cazenovia College, where he taught advanced math and science courses to many gifted students. Gene was extremely bright, knowledgeable and always the educator. You would always come away from a conversation with Gene with a new bit of information about whatever topic you were discussing with him. Gene had beautiful gardens that he was very proud of. He enjoyed watching the birds and other wildlife in his yard. Gene also loved antiques. He and his mother bought and sold antiques for many years. Gene traveled extensively throughout his life. He traveled to several European countries, the Caribbean, and the Amazon. He also enjoyed going on cruises and river cruises. Gene was a member of the Moose Lodge, Elks Lodge, Mechanics Club and the Corning Country Club. Gene is survived by the love of his life for over 50 years, Sonja Shay; son Patrick (Lorri) Sensel; granddaughter, Makena Sensel; his beloved and loyal companions, Coffee and Teddy; cousins, Tom (Julie) Combs, Bob Combs and by several other second cousins; and special friends, Ella Thompson, Randy Comfort and Ray and Ethel Frost. He was predeceased by his parents, his uncles, Teddy Combs, Glenn (Ruth) Combs, and cousin Joel (Cheryl) Combs. When asked how he would sum up his life, Gene responded, "I lived, I loved, and I died". Relatives and friends are invited to call on Wednesday, July 13, 2022 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, 122 N. Genesee St., Montour Falls, NY. Gene's funeral service will begin at 1:00 pm followed by burial with military honors in Highland Cemetery in Odessa.