Gene Fresk

Gene House Fresk

November 13, 1938 — February 11, 2026

Gene House Fresk, a man of unwavering faith, tireless work ethic, and a boisterous, life-loving spirit, passed away on February 11, 2026, at the age of 87.

A Life of Hard Work and Entrepreneurship

Gene was born in Glastonbury Connecticut on November 13, 1938, to Henry and Arlene Fresk. After a two-year stint in the United States Army, Gene began his civilian career with Snap-On Tools where he spent several years learning the trade of fixing cars and selling tools. His journey eventually led him to Orlando, Florida, where his mechanical expertise and reputation for honesty allowed him to thrive for years as the owner of several Shell gas stations. As this industry evolved, Gene eventually decided to launch his own business, Carefree Landscaping, a lawn-maintenance business he operated with the same dedication he brought to every endeavor. He worked side by side with his wife Alene to create a successful family business.

A Heart for Service

Gene’s legacy is perhaps most visible in his devotion to Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Orlando. For years, he served as a faithful usher and member of the church board, but his true passion was realized in his service to help feed the hungry. Gene transformed a modest food pantry into a powerhouse of the Orlando community. Under his leadership and partnership with Second Harvest, the pantry grew from serving 30 families a month to over 300, providing food and hope to thousands of neighbors in need. He loved helping others and he managed to do this with donations and minimal financial support. He donated much of his time and his financial expertise to feed thousands of families over the years.

Adventure and Fellowship

Beyond his work, Gene was a man of the outdoors. An avid fisherman and traveler, he found one of his greatest joys in the wilderness of Canada. For years, he took family and friends with him to the L&M Fly-In Outpost, where he was happiest camping, fishing, and sharing his “trademark humor” around a campfire. He was easygoing and full of life, a man who truly knew how to be himself, and enjoy the company of good friends.

Family and Legacy

Gene was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of nearly 21 years, Alene E. Carr (married May 6, 1982); his brother, Neil Fresk; and his stepdaughter, Cherie Carr.

His generous spirit lives on through his survivors: daughter Kimberly Ann Griffith (Andy); daughter Sheryl Ann Fresk; stepson Robin Carr (Christine) and stepdaughter Vicky Harvill; granddaughter Aleshia Ann Mills (Jake) great-grandson Lukas Ethan Mills; granddaughter Sarah Catherine Wells (Mikey); and step-grandchildren Heather Carr, Chip Carr, Victoria Harvill, and Brook Harvill.

Gene will be remembered as a passionate man who lived life loudly and loved deeply. Whether through his great sense of humor, knowing how to pinch pennies and give great financial advice, his faithful heart and dedication to help and serve others, or his hilariously funny stories he told on a fishing boat. Gene’s steadfast kindness and love of life touched so many and he will be remembered for his thoughtful and faithful giving to everyone he met.

The family will receive friends on Saturday, April 25, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, East Orlando Chapel. A Service to celebrate the life of Gene will be held at 5:00 PM in the funeral home chapel.

The family invites friends and loved ones to share their memories in the guest book, allowing them to cherish the impact Gene had on those he knew.