W. G. "Geno" Withelder was born and raised in the "coal country" of East Central Pennsylvania. After attending public schools and graduating, Geno immediately enlisted in the U. S. Navy. Initial military service consisted of boot camp in Bainbridge, Maryland, and Naval Air Technical Training in Norman, Oklahoma. After successful completion of the NATTC schools, Geno was transferred to Fighter Squadron (VF-53) Fifty Three based at Moffett Field, California. Subsequent duty consisted of a tour of duty in the far East on the Aircraft Carrier USS Kearsarge for a period of nine months with a return to Moffett Field and discharge four years later.
Geno then returned to Pennsylvania and worked in his family's local restaurant and tavern. After living in California for four years, it didn't take long to escape the coal and cold of Pennsylvania, and returned to California. With the love of the hospitality industry, Geno immediately went to work for a very high profile French restaurant where he honed his skills in all facets of the business. Shortly after that, he entered private business in the same industry.
Geno also has been a Licensed Realtor since 1981, and has been a Licensed Broker in the State of Nevada since 2005, working with Premier Properties. Geno also holds the distinction of being a Licensed Business Broker in Nevada
Geno and his wife Barbara have been residents of Mesquite since 2002, and have been very active in the community. They are also the parents of four children, six grandchildren, and their Chihuaua, Brandy.
