Eugene J. “Gene” Utsch, 88, St. Martin

February 9, 1927 - September 18, 2015

Mass of Christian Burial celebrating the life of Eugene J. “Gene” Utsch, 88, of St. Martin will be at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2015 at St. Martin Catholic Church in St. Martin. Gene passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on Friday, September 18, 2015 at Pine Villa Care Center in Melrose. Reverend Edward Vebelun, OSB will officiate. Burial will be in the parish cemetery.

Relatives and friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday and after 10:00 a.m. on Monday both at St. Martin Parish Hall in St. Martin. Parish prayers will be held at 4:00 p.m. and St. Joseph’s Men’s Society will pray at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday at the parish hall.

Gene was born on February 9, 1927 on the family farm near St. Martin to Joseph and Anna (Jaeger)Utsch. He married Jeanette P. Thull on August 22, 1950 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in New Munich. Together they raised four children and farmed near St. Martin. He was a member of St. Martin Parish and St. Joseph’s Men’s Society.

Gene was blessed with many gifts. He was a talented carpenter and a dedicated farmer who enjoyed playing cards, ice fishing and spending time with his family. Gene will be remembered for always lending a hand when it was needed.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Jeanette of St. Martin; children, Joyce Marthaler of Lake Henry, Bev (Arnie) Marthaler of Osakis, Ken (Shirley) of Paynesville, Sharon (David) Marthaler of Osakis; 18 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; brother, Elmer (Genrose) of Albany; and sister, Anita Weyer of Waite Park.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant son; son-in- law, Willie Marthaler; and brothers, Alcuin and Edwin.

Memorials are preferred.

A special thank you to Pine Villa Care Center and Albany Hospice for their care and compassion.