Gene T. Hnydowitz

East Herkimer- Gene T. Hnydowitz, a beloved Dad, Papa, Uncle, Brother and friend, lived a remarkable life, passing away surrounded by loved ones, on March 26, 2026, at the age of 76, after a life lived dedicated to his family, high-level trout stream fishing and all things sports.

Gene was born on November 28, 1949, in Philadelphia, PA to the late Paul Hnydowitz and Eugenia Tymn. He graduated from Westmoreland High School in 1967. He later received an associate's degree in history from St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee, OK and then his bachelor's in history from St. Edwards in Austin, TX.

In 1983, he wed Candise J. Rowan, together in 1986, the year the Mets won the World Series he found himself doubly blessed as they welcomed twins, a boy and girl. Gene spent much of his life lovingly and meticulously collecting sports memorabilia. He was a die-hard Dallas Cowboys, NJ Devils and NY Mets fan, something he found fun to debate about. In fact, you could pretty much ask him any single sports statistic, and he would know the answer. His biggest passion was perfecting and documenting the art of Trout stream fishing. In his passing, Gene left behind a fisherman’s log fully equipped with hand drawn maps and secrets that will be generationally passed down, a treasure so meticulously documented that it would seem fit for the likes of a field and stream magazine. His lifetime catch totaled out at an impressive 25,709 fish primarily comprising of browns, brookies and rainbows. A grand total that proudly dubbed him for years as “TROUTMAN”. Gene spent 43-years enjoying a career and his co-workers at the Masonic Home. In his later years he found his greatest love of all, his Grandchildren, who he cheered on at sports events and enjoyed spending quality time with. A true family man, he instilled the importance of hard work, honesty and the value of a dollar.

Gene is survived by his loving children, Jess Hnydowitz, Abby Hnydowitz (John Talbot). His grandchildren, Preston, Braylon, Roszlynn, Weston, and Kyah. Brother, Gary Hnydowitz, Sister-in-law Pamela Hnydowitz and Niece, Heather Hnydowitz. Brother, Glenn Maine and Sister-in-law Wendy Maine, nephew, Robert Lapointe and nieces, Shaina and Jory Maine, his extended Rowan family whom he adored as well as many friends he enjoyed chatting and laughing with around town.

Predeceased by his father Paul Hnydowitz and Mother Eugenia Maine.

The family will be receiving relatives and friends on OPENING DAY OF TROUT SEASON Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the locally owned and family operated. Vincent A. Enea Funeral Service (next to Hannaford Markets) 527 E. Albany St., Herkimer, NY. A prayer service will follow at 6: 00 pm at the chapel of the funeral home. Please spend the day fishing in honor of Gene, feel free to come dressed in your fishing gear with fish tales to share he would love every minute. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice & Palliative Care Oneida, Herkimer and Eastern Madison Counties, 4277 Middle Settlement Rd, New Hartford, NY 13413. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

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