Gene Pelc

Childhood: Gene Pelc spent his early years in Roscoe, New York. He began his career as a radio announcer at WALL Radio (owned by WMCA) in New York, developing the communication and production skills that would define his entire professional life.

Education and Meeting Mary: He attended Fordham University, where he met Mary Angela Eastlake, who became his wife and lifelong partner. Their meeting at Fordham would prove to be one of the most important moments in Gene's career trajectory.

The Eastlake Family Connection

Mary Angela Eastlake's Heritage: Gene's marriage to Mary Angela Eastlake connected him to the Eastlake family, a family with deep historical roots and significant connections to Japanese culture and international relations.

Cultural Bridge: The Eastlake family's understanding of cross-cultural dynamics provided Gene with valuable perspective that would prove instrumental in his negotiations with Japanese entertainment companies.

Francis: Brother of the Universe (1980): Gene conceived this groundbreaking comic about St. Francis of Assisi. It became the first Marvel comic to sell over 1 million copies and was translated into 8 languages.

The Life of Pope John Paul II: Following Francis, Gene produced a comic about Pope John Paul II. He overcame obstacles including communications restrictions during Poland's communist era to gather accurate information.

These works won recognition from the Catholic Press Association and demonstrated Gene's ability to create meaningful content bridging entertainment and spirituality.