Eugene, better known as Gene, Troxell has lived the past 56 years in the San Diego area. But his life began elsewhere.   His early childhood was spent in Glendale, Oregan where he attended elementary school and high school.  During his junior year, he moved to Gonzaga High School where he finished his high school years and attended the Jesuit Seminary.  Upon leaving the seminary, he continued his education to complete his Bachelor's degree.  During that time, he met and married Clare Harvey.  They had three children, Christopher, Cameron and Keira. Gene continued his education at The University of Chicago where he received his Doctorate in Philosophy.  He was the recipient of a Woodrow Wilson scholarship that provided for his education.  Upon graduation, he accepted a position at San Diego State University in the Philosophy Department.  He instructed many students during his 34 years as a Professor of Philosophy, specializing in Ethics.

In 1989 he married Emily Barnard.  They made their home in Poway.  While Gene was busy with his academic work, he found that hiking and camping were a great way to fill his free time.   After retirement, Gene began taking classes at Palomar Community College, where he spent many hours creating furniture for their home.  Gene and Emily enjoyed traveling as much of the world as possible.  During these travels, they visited all seven continents – learning about the lives of people very different from their own culture.   Both Gene and Emily have been long-time members of Chalice Unitarian Universalist Congregation, accepting leadership positions to assist in the congregational life.  But most of all, the Chalice Congregation has become Gene's spiritual home.

Gene will be greatly missed by his wife, his children as well as his step children -- and all the friends that been part of his life over the past years.