Gene Acela, 96, formerly of McCleary Avenue, Amsterdam, NY, passed away Wednesday, August 30, 2017 at Capstone Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing in Amsterdam. Born on December 27, 1920, he was the son of the late Jacob and Mary Cionek Acela. Gene received his education in Amsterdam schools and graduated from Wilbur H. Lynch High School. Gene was a United States Army veteran of World War II, serving from 1942 to 1945 and was the recipient of the Bronze Star Award. He also bowled in several Amsterdam Bowling Leagues and was a former member of the Amsterdam Municipal Golf Course. During the last several months, he enjoyed spending time with his many friends and the staff at Capstone. His surviving family would like to thank all of you for the kindness and compassion you showed toward Gene. Gene retired from Cushing Stone Company in Amsterdam. Gene is survived by his second cousins, Donna Kuiber (Chuck) and Linda Shaffer all of Amsterdam and Judy Powers and Lee Ann Felker, both of Clifton Park, NY, several third cousins also survive. Gene was also predeceased by his sister, Olga Kosiba and his brother, Raymond Acela. Funeral services will be held this afternoon at 1:30 at the Riley Mortuary, Inc., 110 Division Street, Amsterdam, NY 12010. There are no prior calling hours. Interment will take place at Mount Carmel Cemetery, Johnstown, NY.