Gene Florian Storbakken, age 77, passed away peacefully at home on May 15, 2025, surrounded by loved ones.

Gene was born on June 8, 1947, to Florian William Storbakken and Helen Mattie (Lunski) Storbakken. The oldest of nine siblings, Gene grew up in Grand Forks, ND, graduated from GF Central High School, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of North Dakota.

In August of 1966, Gene was united in marriage to Susan Marie Nelson and to this union 4 children were born. When Gene started working for GAB Robins as a Claims Adjuster in 1970, they made their home in Williston, ND. They were married for 22 years. Gene was a devoted and loving father to his 4 children. His steady presence, kind heart, and unconditional love left a lasting impact on each of their lives.

In 1990, Gene met the love of his life, Dorothy Jean Simmons, and they married on September 26, 1991, in Hawaii. When Gene was recognized for his hard work and service to GAB Robins with the President’s Award, he was rewarded with a trip to Florida. This memorable trip sparked a shared love for all things Disney – a source of happiness that Gene and Dorothy cherished together for many years. A generous and joyful spirit, Gene loved treating his whole family with trips to Disneyland, making magic a part of his legacy.

Gene worked 51 years as an insurance adjuster, officially retiring in 2022. He was highly respected and known for his integrity, work ethic, and commitment to helping others during times of need – values that defined not only his work but his life.

Gene was a lifelong athlete. Playing basketball at Grand Forks Central, he led the team to a 21-5 record and was awarded 1st Team All-State in 1965. He was a 3-year starter on the Grand Forks Legion baseball team, taking runner up in the State Tournaments in 1963 and 1965. Gene went on to play baseball at the University of ND from 1966-1969. Their 1967 team won the conference championship and Gene was named captain of the 1969 team. He was inducted into the UND Baseball Hall of Fame. Gene stayed active in sports, competing on numerous teams into his 50’s in fast-pitch and slo-pitch. He has been called a dominant player, winning numerous batting titles, league championships and state tournaments. He was inducted into the North Dakota Amateur Softball Association Hall of Fame in 1997.

To his eight grandchildren, Gene was affectionately known as Grandpa Geno – a title he wore with great pride. He made the long drive to Washington State multiple times a year to spend precious time with them. His generous and humorous nature always made them laugh. Whether he was telling jokes, making up silly songs, or simply being delightfully goofy, Grandpa Geno had a gift for bringing joy to those around him. He will lovingly be remembered for his humor, his warmth, and the unforgettable moments he created with those he loved the most.

Gene is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his daughters; Rachel (Lee) Allen, Mary (Steve) Sesso, Naomi Storbakken, all of Everett, WA; his son; Michael (Laura) Storbakken of Lake Stevens, WA; eight grandchildren; Mackenzie Storbakken, Eric Allen, Taylor Marquardt, Alexa Allen, Jacob Sesso, Sydney Sesso, Alexander Sesso, and Alyssa Storbakken. He is also survived by his mother, Helen Storbakken; siblings; Joyce (Max) Long, Greg (Joan) Storbakken, Shirley Essary, Janice (Mike) Meyers, Bradley (Shari) Storbakken, Marlene (Robert) Schultz, Brian (Sandi) Storbakken, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gene is preceded in death by his father, Florian Storbakken; sister; Pamela Aaker; brother-in-law; William F. Essary Jr; niece; Trisha Aaker; grandparents; William and Francis Storbakken, Joseph and Mattie Lunski.

Memorial Contribution