Eugene “Gene” Distler, Beloved Hair Stylist and Community Pillar, Passes Away at 88

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Eugene “Gene” Distler, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and pillar of the Richmond Heights community. Gene passed away peacefully at home on May 22nd, 2024, surrounded by his loving family.

A Life Devoted to Hair Styling

Gene’s passion for hair styling began in 1958 when he opened his first barber shop in Euclid. At the age of 22, he had graduated from Moler Barber College and was eager to make his mark on the industry. In 1968, he opened Distler’s Roffler Family Hair Center in Richmond Heights, a venture that would become a cornerstone of his career.

Gene was more than just a barber. He was an Ohio Roffler distributor and a respected instructor. He and his team taught hundreds of upcoming hairstylists the “Roffler System of Men’s Hairstyling.” His expertise and dedication earned him recognition as an International Guest Platform Artist, and he traveled extensively to share his knowledge.

Gene’s wife Ginny was his constant companion and an integral part of his career. Their son Donald joined his father’s business and worked alongside him until Gene’s retirement at the remarkable age of 84. Several other family members followed in Gene’s footsteps and pursued careers in hairstyling.

Community Involvement and Legacy

Beyond his success in the hair styling industry, Gene was actively involved in the Richmond Heights community. He served as President of the Richmond Heights Kiwanis Club in 1974-75. He was also a member of the Collinwood Memories Club and a past member of the Chagrin Lagoons Yacht Club.

Gene’s love for boating, fishing, and swimming was known to all who knew him. He cherished the time he spent with his large family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Gene’s military service included 8 years in the U.S. Navy Reserves.

Funeral Arrangements

A Prayer of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 1st, 2024 at 10 AM at the DeJohn-Flynn-Mylott Funeral Home in Willoughby Hills. Burial will follow at Crown Hill Cemetery.

Friends and family are invited to pay tribute to Gene and celebrate his life at the funeral home on Friday, May 31st, 2024 from 3-7 PM.

Memorial donations may be made in Gene’s name to Hospice of the Western Reserve or the National Barber Museum and Hall of Fame.

Gene Distler’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched. He was a master hair stylist, a dedicated community member, and a loving patriarch. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

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