EUGENE PETERSON

Eugene L. Gene Peterson, of Menasha, age 81, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, June 1, 2010. He was born July 5, 1928 in New London, son of the late William and Hazel (Dumbleton) Peterson. Gene served his country in the US Navy where he was stationed in the Pacific. He married Ruth Reimer on April 23, 1949 in Menasha. She preceded him in death on September 1, 2008. Gene was employed with Kimberly-Clark for 40 years until his retirement in 1987. He was able to enjoy 23 years of retirement. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, watching birds, going to the cottage in Door County and traveling with his wife. Gene was a member and Usher at Faith United Methodist Church in Neenah. Survivors include his eight children: Mardy (Tom) Dahlen, Mike (Sandra) Peterson, Ken (Kim) Peterson, Roger Peterson, Joan (Kevin) Roberts, Barb (Tony) Reader, Dan Peterson, Donna Peterson; 17 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; three sisters: Carol Thede, Mary Beck, Eleanor Krause; a brother, Ronald (Connie) Peterson; and a brother-in-law, Richard (Charlotte) Reimer. Gene was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Jenny Dahlen; a brother, Jim Peterson; and a sister, Grace Peterson. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 9, 2010 at Faith United Methodist Church, 1025 Tullar Road, Neenah, with the Rev. Mary Council-Austin officiating. Full military rites will follow the service at the church. Visitation will be held at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the hour of service. A memorial is being established in his name. Interment will be in St. Marys Cemetery, Menasha. The family would like to thank the staff of Home Instead and Theda Care at Home Hospice for all their care of Gene.