Born on May 21, 1956, in Hollywood, California, to Carl Westly and Lorraine Schumacher Nehf, Geno grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and proudly joined the United States Marine Corps after high school. A strong and steady presence in every life he touched, Geno married the love of his life, Donna, in December 1991 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Their journey took them all over the country from Las Vegas to Ogden, Utah, and eventually to May, Texas – the place they would call home and raise their family.

For over 26 years, Geno owned and operated Brownwood Muffler & Automotive in Early, Texas, where he poured his heart into serving his community with unmatched honesty and dedication. A talented carpenter and skilled craftsman, he built most of the family’s Lake Brownwood home by hand, adorning it with rich woodwork that reflected his care and attention to detail.

But above all, Geno’s favorite role in life was being “Grandpa.” He found his greatest joy on the floor surrounded by Legos and laughter, building not just toys, but lifelong memories. Family was everything to him, and he gave his love freely and fiercely.

Geno is survived by his children: daughter Nicole Mitchell and her son Watson of Rising Star, Texas; daughter Gina Cifaldi and husband Charles of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and their children Maria, Luciana, Amelia, and Rocco; and step son Colby Johnson and wife Deborah of Las Vegas, Nevada. He is also survived by many beloved siblings, nieces, nephews, and friends who will carry his memory in their hearts.

He was preceded in death by his cherished wife Donna, his mother Lorraine Gassen, his step father Thomas Gassen, and his father Charles Nehf.

Online condolences can be shared with the family at www.heartlandfuneralhome.net