Eugene, or Gene as he was called, was one hard-working and independent man. He had to be, growing up on a farm near the Canadian border in North Dakota. His father died of the Spanish flu when Gene was a young boy, and his mother, Helen Seavers remarried, and had 3 more sons. They later lived on farms near Madison and Stevens Point in WI. He built an addition onto their home, and enjoyed the hard work and fresh air country living provided. Gene left for the Navy when he was only 17, and worked hard there, becoming a deep sea diver and demolition expert, defusing underwater mines in Hawaii and other areas. He returned home and became a cab driver, and then an over-the- road trucker, later becoming independent and buying his own big rig. Gene traveled across the country, from New York to California and Florida, delivering meats to high-end restaurants. He heard some interesting things about the Bible from his good friend, Dave Borowski, and began a study of the Bible, as did his mother. They were convinced they had found the truth, and both were soon baptized. Gene later married Elaine Nefe, and they settled in the West Allis area, relishing working on their homes and yards. Gene especially enjoyed Elaine's excellent cooking and baking skills. His favorite was a roast turkey dinner with all the trimmings, complete with her famous cherry strip. After ten short years, Gene suffered a terrible stroke, affecting his mobility and personality. He was only 60 years old. Although not being able to drive, he faithfully attended all the Bible meetings, assemblies, and conventions with the help of his wife and children. He had strong faith in Jehovah's promise to restore his health under His Kingdom arrangement here on earth, so soon at hand. Gene never lost his wry and dry sense of humor, and became amazingly mellow in his old age. When Mom had recounted a long and rambling story, and then Gene gave his abbreviated version of the same incident, we replied, 'Gene's story was a lot shorter'. Gene quipped, 'Yeah, and a lot more accurate!' Gene passed away on Saturday, October 5, 2013-- a very memorable day when the New World Translation was released at the Annual Meeting of Jehovah's Witnesses, telecast worldwide! Pop, we will always remember you, your love of hard work, and your sassy sense of humor. We will see you in Paradise! (Psalm 37:10 and 11) A sincere thanks for the tender care from Hospice Advantage, and the Assisted Living centers.Service:Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 3420 W. Forest Home Ave. Milwaukee.