Clifford "Gene" Keplinger, 72, of Elk Garden, W.Va., died on Saturday, July 15, 2023, at his home surrounded by his family. He was born on April 23, 1951, in Elk Garden, and was the son of the late Paul Howard, Sr. and Josephine Marian (Sheetz) Keplinger.

Gene was a graduate of Elk Garden High School. He was a heavy equipment operator for surface mining and retired from Upper Potomac River Commission as a truck driver and mechanic. He was a member of the First Baptist Church, in Westernport. Gene enjoyed spending time with his kids and grandkids, especially when "Burning Hotdogs" and riding his motorcycle with his late wife.

He is survived by three children, Adam Keplinger and wife Cassie, of Gormania, Angela Keplinger and fiancé Jonathan Heavener, of Maysville, and Andrew Keplinger and fiancé Ashley Self, of Keyser; grandchildren, Briley and Dustin Keplinger; a sister, Karen Simmons and husband Marshall; and a brother, David Keplinger and wife Lena. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Laurie May (Williams) Keplinger; three sisters, Lois McCloud, Ruth Ann Paugh and Essie Pennington; and three brothers, Paul, Jr., Robert, and Troxell Keplinger.

Friends will be received at the C & S Fredlock Funeral Home, P.A., 710 Church Street, Kitzmiller, on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, from 5 to 7 p.m., and again on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, from 10 to 11 a.m., at which time a funeral service will be held.

Interment will be held in the IOOF Cemetery, Elk Garden.

If desired memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 109 Philos Ave, Westernport, MD 21562.

The C & S Fredlock Funeral Home, P.A., Kitzmiller is honored to be serving the Keplinger family at this time.