Gene Lee Van Newkirk

Gene Lee Van Newkirk, born on September 10, 1936, in Payette, Idaho to Everett and Helen Van Newkirk. Gene passed away on August 2, 2024, in Olympia, Washington. He lived a life marked by devotion, love for his family, animals, and the great outdoors. Later in life he reconnected with and married his high school sweetheart Laura Ferney.

Gene worked for Union Pacific as a Carman from 1957 until his retirement in 1999. He graduated with an associate's degree from Oregon Technical Institute in 1958. He was known for his commitment and work ethic during his long and distinguished career. He joined the Army National Guard in 1956 and served until 1962. 

Gene cherished the simple pleasures of life, including fishing and hunting. A sports enthusiast, he enjoyed basketball, running, bike riding, and jazzercise. He loved to take 50-mile bike rides from Pendleton, Oregon to Lagrande, Oregon. He had a special place in his heart for animals, and the generations of deer he fed remained regulars at his former home well after he’d moved. He was a member of the Elks Lodge and the Knights of Columbus. He enjoyed cooking at the senior center in Prairie City, Oregon.

A man of deep religious faith, Gene continued to express his devotion even when he could no longer speak his prayers, making the sign of the cross as a testament to his enduring belief. Gene was very grateful for the love and support he received from Domonick Barker, Aiden Van Newkirk, Addison Van Newkirk, Danny McCoy, Jan Bobo, Sawyer Watterson, Calvin Watterson, James Watterson, Shawna Watterson Smith, Shawna Clark and all of his longtime neighbors and friends. 

Gene is survived by his children, Charles Van Newkirk, Noel Grant, and Maria, as well as his eight grandchildren, who were a source of immense pride and joy. His pride for his children was evident, especially considering his delight in seeing all three pursue higher education. He was preceded in death by his wife Laura Ferney, his sister June Van Newkirk, and his beloved parents.

Service details will be announced at a later date.