Gene Frederick, Sr.

Gene Frederick was born on May 17, 1978, in Pittsburgh, PA, to Gene Baynes and Diana Canady. Joseph Frederick was not Gene's biological father, however he embraced Gene as his own from a young age, becoming the steady, loving father who raised, guided, and supported Gene through his entire life.

Gene grew up in Wilkinsburg, a neighbourhood just outside Pittsburgh, alongside his sisters, cousins, and friends. Gene graduated from Wilkinsburg High School in 1997 and began working various retail jobs, with a desire to be his own boss. Gene’s ultimate goal was to be his own boss and provide for his growing family. He started Swurrv Entertainment in 2002 and coined himself “Mr. Wildem”. Swurrv Entertainment produced films, events, photography, matchmaking services, and the “The Fest” which became Pittsburgh's biggest annual Halloween party, giving him the title “King of Halloween.” Gene was an entrepreneur at his core and often explored new business ventures. He built Domi Chantel from the ground up into a successful service and make-up line.

Gene strategically spent several years working at Duquesne Light, using the experience to lay the foundation for his future entrepreneurial ventures. After his tenure with the company, Gene focused on building Frederick Capital's real estate portfolio, purchasing and renovating several homes and offices in the Pittsburgh area, which he transformed into rental properties and successful flips.

Gene was more than just a presence; he was a force of support, wisdom, and love. He had a smile that could light up any room. He was everyone’s protector, provider, and constant - never on time - but always showed up.

God opened heaven's gate on May 1, 2025, and welcomed Gene with open arms. His memory will forever be cherished by his loving children, Gene Jr. and Sean Frederick (Latoya), Kimani and NaeVia Frederick ( Malika), Dianna Frederick and bonus son Mathew Cain (Dominique Cain), his fathers' Joseph Frederick and Gene Baynes, sisters Melodye Canady, India McMillian, Brandi Frederick, Margarite Garner, Janeen Baynes-Feinberg, and Stefanie Baynes-Sikich, brother David Baynes, close friends, Mark Vesci, Richard and William Coffey, Tamera Smith, and Brandy Howard, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles, friends, and the City of Pittsburgh.

Gene is preceded in death by mother Diane Canady, grandmother, Suzette Canady, aunts, Jeanette Hampton, Geraldine Lawhom, Charmaine Hanner and his uncle, David Burrell.

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