Eugene Dorris Kilmer was the father of popular actor Val Kilmer. While not as famous as his son, Eugene led an interesting life filled with accomplishments and struggles. He was an industrialist and real estate developer. Let’s learn more about his life, career, and family.
Quick Facts About Eugene Dorris Kilmer
| Full Name | Eugene Dorris Kilmer |
| Birthdate | 1921, Caddo, Texas |
| Died | April 26, 1993, Chatsworth, California |
| Age at Death | 71 |
| Occupation | Industrialist, Real Estate Developer |
| Husband/Wife | Wife: Gladys Kilmer |
| Education | Graduated from University of Southern California (USC), attended UCLA and UC Berkeley |
| Parents | Thomas Walker Kilmer, Nora Jones |
| Grandchildren | Mercedes Kilmer, Jack Kilmer |
| Children | Val Kilmer (Son), Mark Kilmer (Son), Wesley Kilmer (Son, died in 1977) |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $10 million |
Early Life and Education
Eugene was born in Caddo, Texas, in 1921. He spent most of his childhood in New Mexico. Eugene attended college after high school. He graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) in 1951. Eugene also attended UCLA and UC Berkeley. These institutions shaped his future and provided him with the skills to be successful in business.
Career in Engineering and Real Estate
Upon completing his education, Eugene began his professional career in the aerospace sector. He established Liberty Engineering, an organization that produced rivets and aircraft parts. This company played a significant part in serving the expanding aerospace business during the mid-1900s. Eugene’s experience in this sector contributed to his being known as a diligent and motivated businessman.
In 1976, Eugene took a bold step by purchasing the Open Diamond Bar Ranch in Chatsworth, California. The ranch was rich in history. Roy Rogers and Dale Evans, well-known movie stars, had owned it. Eugene had grand designs on the property. He planned to make it a luxury community. He formed a company by the name Indian Wells Estates Inc. to build high-end residences on the land. Eugene hoped to turn this area into the “Bel-Air of the San Fernando Valley,” a sophisticated and upscale neighborhood.
But that didn’t work out. Money troubles hit, and the development was severely set back. Indian Wells Estates Inc. became bankrupt by the early 1990s. A few of the proposed developments never materialized. In spite of this failure, Eugene’s idea of a lavish community put its stamp on the region.
Family Life
Eugene’s life, too, was filled with significant relationships. Eugene married Gladys Kilmer. They had two sons, Val and Mark Kilmer. Eugene’s son, Val Kilmer, went on to be a renowned actor famous for his appearance in films such as Top Gun and Batman Forever.
Unfortunately, Eugene’s younger son, Wesley Kilmer , died in 1977 from a seizure caused by epilepsy. Wesley was only 15 years old when he died. The family found this loss hard to bear, but Eugene continued to be a firm pillar for his remaining children.
READ ALSO: Val Kilmer Net worth, Age, Girlfriend, Family, Facts & More
Passing and Legacy
Eugene Dorris Kilmer died on April 26, 1993, at the age of 71. He died in his Chatsworth, California, home after a struggle with cancer. His death brought to an end one chapter for the Kilmer family. Eugene was survived by his wife, Senga, and his children, including his celebrity son, Val.
Eugene was recalled at the time of his death for his drive, dedication, and hopes of leaving a lasting mark in the world of real estate. While his ventures did not always pan out as intended, his work contributed to the development of sections of the San Fernando Valley. He was also recalled by how he lived with his family. Eugene was a committed husband and father who were deeply devoted to their loved ones.
Final Honors
Upon his death, Eugene’s family conducted private memorial services for him. In place of flowers, they requested that donations be given to civic organizations such as Shriners Hospital for Crippled Children and Santa Fe Indian School. Eugene cared deeply about these groups and desired to continue assisting them even in his death.
