Eugene "Gene" T. Cerutti

Eugene (Gene) T. Cerutti, 87, of Sayre, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully at home on 08/13/26 after an extended illness. Gene was born into a heritage defined by hard work, service, and community. His father, James Bernard Cerutti, emigrated from Italy—the son of Frank and Olive (De Francisco) Cerutti—and spent his life as a dedicated coal miner, a member of the United Mine Workers of America, and a proud veteran of World War I. His mother, Amy Christina Swanson, was raised within the close-knit Swedish Lutheran community of Elk County, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Gustaf Swanson. James and Amy were united in marriage in 1920, blending two rich immigrant traditions that shaped the values of the Cerutti household. Growing up, Gene developed a strong commitment to learning, reinforced by his older brother, Bob, and his sisters, Thelma and Dorothy. He graduated from Kittanning High School. In 1962, Gene earned his bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts from Penn State University, ultimately earning a Bachelor of Science and Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from Penn State in 1966—a proud affiliation that remained a lifelong passion. He continued to advance his passion for education, attending classes at the University of Missouri and Elmira College. An active Penn State donor and dedicated sports fan, he rarely missed a chance to travel to State College, frequently making the trip multiple times a week to support the Nittany Lions and belonged to the Nittany Lions Club for over 50 years. He was also a vocal Yankee fan and a proud Pittsburgh Steeler fan. Fifty-nine years ago, Gene moved to the Valley after joining the Athens Area School District as a teacher. Over a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years as a vice-principal, principal, administrator, and athletic director, he left an indelible mark on generations of students and staff at three different school districts. His commitment to public service extended beyond the school walls. He served the community for 12 years as a member of Borough Council; served as a board member for the Bradford-Tioga Penn State Club in the mid-1980s; and he helped preserve local heritage, in tandem with his brother, by shepherding a portion of a statewide Indian trail markers restoration project through the school district. Gene was also a proud member of UNICO, an American Cancer Society volunteer, and worked on fundraising for Golf for Hospice. Gene was a member of St. John Lutheran Church, where he served on the Church Council, maintained flowerbeds, and volunteered in church related projects. Above all, Gene’s heart belonged to his community. For over two decades, alongside his wife, Mary, he devoted countless hours to beautifying downtown Sayre. Through their tireless work planting and tending to two flower gardens, Gene left behind a landscape made brighter and more vibrant by his hands—a living testament to his enduring care for the place he called home. In addition to his parents, Gene was preceded in death by his siblings Lucille, Robert, Edwin, Dorothy, Thelma, and Bill, and also by his son, Tim Broughton. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary K. (Kimble) Cerutti; his sons, Kelly Broughton and Todd Broughton; and his grandchildren, Eryn and Gavin. Gene wished to extend a special thanks to Guthrie Hospice and the following friends and neighbors Pat and Eileen, Kris and Richard, Judy and Eric, Richard, Dave and Chris for all their help and support during these trying days. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gene’s memory to support those in need may be made to UNICO, ACS, or St John Lutheran Church. A memorial service for Mr. Cerutti will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday August 26, 2026 at St. John Lutheran Church, 207 S. Hopkins St, Sayre, PA 18840, followed by a Tailgate Reception at the church. Memories and condolences may be expressed by visiting www.bowenfuneralhomes.com . "Go Penn State!"

Eugene "Gene" T. Cerutti

July 8, 1939 - August 13, 2026

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Eugene "Gene" T. Cerutti

July 8, 1939 - August 13, 2026

365 Days of Grief Support

What We Do

Flowers & Gifts

About Us

Resources

Obituaries

Grief & Healing

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