Eugene Birks, 86

Eugene Birks, 86, passed away Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2018 in Kalispell.

Gene was born Sept. 1, 1932 in Logan, Iowa, to Clay and Garphelia Birks. He was raised on a farm with two older brothers and one sister. He rode his horse to school, and later his motorcycle. He graduated from Logan High School in 1950 and shortly after joined the Navy. He served for four years during the Korean War, was stationed on Guam and later aboard the USS Helena.

On shore leave in Seattle he met Sharol. It was, as they say, “love at first sight”. Later that year, after his discharge from the Navy, they were married at her home in Kalispell. They moved to Seattle and Gene began his career with “Ma Bell”. Their three sons were born in Seattle. Later Gene’s work took them to eastern Washington, California, Billings and finally to West Glacier. Gene loved his telephone work and helping all his customers in East and West Glacier. He retired in 2004 after 50 years with the phone company.

He struggled with serious health problems the last years of his life. He loved his Great Dane, Zoe, who was his best friend through all his illness.

Gene is survived by his wife, and three sons Doug, Dan (of New Jersey) and Dave (of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico); his five grandchildren, David, Stephanie, Emmanuel, Joanna and Monica, and two great grandchildren, Andre and Valeria. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his brothers and sister.

Services for Gene will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 6, at the Faith Covenant Presbyterian Church, 611 Third Avenue East, Kalispell, Montana. Lunch will be served at the church after the service. There will be no graveside service.

Darlington Cremation and Burial Service is caring for Gene and his family.