Eugene F. Mauzey, 88

Eugene F. Mauzey was born to Earl F. and Jenny (LeFevre) Mauzey on Sept. 14, 1922, at Sunset Orchards, Woods Bay, Mont.

“He stepped into the presence of the Savior he loved” on May 10, 2011.

He grew up on the shores of Flathead Lake, where he learned to work hard in the orchards that were the family business. He also learned to swim, ice skate and fish — pastimes he taught his kids to enjoy also.

In April 1944 he was drafted into the Marine Corps where he served in the Pacific Theater on the islands of Guam, Okinawa and Guadalcanal. He ended his military service in China, where he participated in the surrender of the Japanese forces to the Chinese.

Gene married Helen M. Burnell on June 19, 1949, and to this union was born three children. He loved his family and was a faithful husband and father. He was a member of the American Legion and served as Commander of Flathead Post 7, and was a Boy Scout leader when his sons were young.

In 1958 Gene and Helen were introduced to Jesus Christ, and his relationship with his Lord was what characterized the remainder of his life. He served faithfully at the Bible Presbyterian Church in Kalispell until moving to Burley, Idaho in 2002 to be closer to his daughter’s family.

Gene always enjoyed basketball but was made a rabid fan by his youngest son who took him to a Portland Trailblazer game. He was watching the NBA playoffs during the final days of his life.

 He is survived by his wife, Helen, of Burley, Idaho; a daughter, Shirley and John Ramey, also of Burley; two sons, John and Tina of Kalispell, and Steve and Linda of Oregon City, Ore.; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Richard.

Gene’s life was characterized by a servant’s heart. He loved helping people and would do all he could to help anyone. He would quietly step in to fill any need he saw and never considered a task too menial for his attention. He was deeply loved by his family and friends and will be greatly missed.

 A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, May 17, at the Bible Presbyterian Church, 344 5th Ave. W., in Kalispell.

Arrangements and cremation have been entrusted to the care of the Rasmussen Funeral Home of Burley.