Former Lompoc Mayor dies on his 91st birthday

LOMPOC, Calif. - Eugene Stevens, who served as Lompoc's mayor in the 70's and 80's, passed away on his 91st birthday on January 5.

Stevens was elected for three terms as mayor. His service on Lompoc City Council spanned more than 15 years, from April 1970 to Nov. 1982, and again from Nov. 1986 to July 1989.

Eugene "Gene" Stevens was living in Banning, California, at the time of his death.

Stevens founded the Lompoc Mural Society in 1988 where he served as administrator for 25 years. The society focuses on adding murals big and small to the city. This was one example of how dedicated Stevens was to city beautification programs and promoting tourism.

Thanks to his active efforts to better Lompoc, Stevens was named Lompoc’s “Man of the Century” in the year 2000.

In his obituary, Stevens' family said, “He was an energetic, happy man who loved life and lived it to its fullest, loved his family and friends and was a dedicated supporter of the community of Lompoc. He will be missed.”

In his memory, his family suggests donating to the Lompoc Mural Society, another favorite charity or by performing an act of kindness.