Peacefully and surrounded by his family and friends, Gene Neal Callsen was called to Heaven on February 18th, 2026. In his last days, he continued to shower us with his love, thoughtfulness, and humor. 

Gene was born on October 2, 1948, to Charles and Alvina Callsen in Nampa, Idaho. Gene graduated from Caldwell High School in 1966. At the age of 17, he enlisted in the US Navy and fought in the Vietnam War. After serving the military, Gene became an electrician and worked at various companies, including Simplot for several years. This is where he would meet the love of his life.

Gene and Alma met during their time working at Simplot. They worked opposite shifts, but Gene was eager to meet her and would arrive early at work hoping to catch her eye. It took a couple attempts for her to finally agree to go on a date but on December 15th everything changed when he took her to her first College of Idaho basketball game. December 15th was a day he’d forever acknowledge by sending flowers to Alma in honor of their first date. Alma and Gene married on April 17th, 1993. Gene was a devoted husband to Alma.  They enjoyed their life together traveling, hosting family events, and being loyal Yotes fans.

Gene was a dedicated father to his children, Tammy and Neal, always prioritizing being a good Dad. His love for them was unconditional, and unwavering. He cherished time spent with his children. 

Gene was the third oldest of 6 brothers and 2 sisters. He was admired by his siblings for his steady demeanor and genuine love for them. After marrying Alma, his siblings-in-law were also captivated by him. This love carried over to all his nieces and nephews, and even to his great and great-great nieces and nephews. A big teddy bear, Gene was often known as of one of the favorite uncles. He loved them like his own, and they all felt it. Even as a man of few words, he was supportive and encouraging, always someone to lean on. 

Gene was blessed with longtime friends, still in contact with many. He cared deeply for them and always looked forward to visits, specifically on the patio with a glass of whiskey. 

Gene exuded love. There are not many other words to fully portray him, he was indescribable. He was simply love. Everyone could feel it. His heart was generous. We will greatly miss his guidance, his humor, his affection and his embraces.

Gene is survived by the love of his life Alma, daughter, Tammy (Rich) Albertson; son, Neal Callsen; brothers, Bob Callsen, Michael Callsen, Dennis (Jeanette) Callsen, David (Sylvia) Callsen, John (Dena) Callsen, Tom (Caroline) Callsen; and sister, Claire Maloney. 

Gene was proceeded in death by parents, Charles and Alvina Callsen; sister, Ann Callsen; uncle, August Gene Callsen; Aunt Bernice Callsen; mother-in-law, Catalina Longoria, and many other loved ones. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the College of Idaho basketball program. 

Checks made payable to: College of Idaho Basketball.  Memo: Honor of Gene Callsen

Address: College of Idaho   Attn: Colby Blaine MBB 2112 Cleveland Blvd Caldwell ID 83605

A viewing will be held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5-8:00 pm at Flahiff Funeral Chapel, 624 Cleveland Blvd. in Caldwell. A funeral service will be held on Friday, February 27, 2026, at 10:00 am at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, 1122 W. Linden Street in Caldwell, with a graveside service to immediately follow at Canyon Hill Cemetery. Services are under the direction of Flahiff Funeral Chapel, Caldwell. (208) 459-0833