Eugene Erez (“Gene”) passed away suddenly on Dec. 27, 2025, while on vacation in Bangkok, Thailand. He was 62 years old.
Gene was born on July 21, 1963, in Ukraine (now Russia). As a young child, he immigrated to the U.S. with his family as a Russian refugee, eventually settling in Texas before they moved to Boston. Through determination, resilience, and hard work, Gene built a life defined by craftsmanship, loyalty, and generosity.
He pursued his education at Northeastern University before finding his way to Martha’s Vineyard, a place that would become his true home. Gene began working as a carpenter and quickly discovered his passion for building. That passion grew into a successful career as a general contractor and owner of Dukes County Builders, spanning more than 25 years. During that time, Gene renovated or built more than 100 homes across Martha’s Vineyard.
Beyond his work, Gene lived life fully. He was an avid tennis player who loved the game’s challenge and camaraderie. He enjoys gardening, and had a deep love for travel, embracing new cultures and experiences with curiosity and enthusiasm.
Gene will be remembered for his infectious laugh, his strong work ethic, and his unwavering devotion to family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy not only in the homes he built, but also in the many lives he touched.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mew Mutita Chumee; his children, Yelana, Alex, Isabella, and Aelita; his father, Dr. Victor; his brother, Dimitri; his niece, Elena; his nephew, Nickoli; and countless friends and clients who will miss him dearly.
Gene’s memory will live on through the love he shared, the homes he created, and the laughter he brought wherever he went.
A private family memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Cottagers Inc. of Martha’s Vineyard, Building Fund, P.O. Box 2595, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557, or to the American Heart Association, online at bit.ly/AHA_donate.
My 3rd friend now lost in the past year from the Vineyard. Though I knew Gene from the building scene for 30 years, I had more fun with him when he would come over for tennis matches. Gene was extremely unique. He is the only player I ever met that would laugh at his own mistakes. Most of us hate ourselves when we miss in any sport, but not Gene, he would laugh. It was so pleasant to be around such a good sport. Gene, please keep that great attribute in heaven, and if there are any good tennis matches up there, send me a message. But I’m not in any hurry. All of us over 60 needs to keep up on our health. Doctors are no always right, so do your own due diligence.