D. Gene Armstrong

When he was 17 he followed in the footsteps of all his older brothers joining the Army in 1947. After his tour of duty, Gene pursued a variety of occupations, all of which involved his hands and working outdoors.

He married LaVonne Kath October 25, 1958 in Campbell, Minnesota. They enjoyed 55 years of marriage, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. They lived in Minnesota until 1978, then moved to Colorado and lived the remainder of his life there. His love of driving and travel, led them on many family road trips. The kids learned early if asking “Where are we going?” or “When will we get there?” Gene’s standard answer was always,” You will know when you get there”.

He had a phenomenal memory. Remembering exact dates of every vacation; cities traveled to; lodging locations; and scenic stops along the way. Gene also remembered the year make and model of every vehicle he every owned. His hobbies and passions were reading Western novels, historical references and biographies, and military history books. He would often help his grandchildren with history studies and assignments. He enjoyed taking long walks when they lived in Arvada, as well as fishing and playing pool. For the last number of years Gene loved working Word Search puzzles to keep his mind active. His easy manner and terrific sense of humor allowed him to effortlessly make friends where ever they went. He was dearly loved and will be missed by all.

84, passed away peacefully on May 20, 2014 in Ft. Collins, Colorado. He is survived by his loving family; his loving wife LaVonne of 55 years, six children; Barbara Jean Edmaiston, LaVonna Kay Scott, Naomi Jean (Nigel) Young, Steven Richard (Linda) Armstrong, Tanya Marie (Craig) Hawkins, and SGM Kevin Eugene (Theresa) Armstrong. Twelve grandchildren; Gregory (Stephanie) Teel, Kathy (Joe) Gentry, Melissa (Roy) Steele, Ken (Lisa) Scott, Aaron Armstrong, Brandon Christiansen, Christopher Hawkins, Nicklaus Hawkins, Michael (Lindsey) Armstrong, Pamela (Leo) Armstrong, Robert Armstrong, and Tina Armstrong, also 14 great grandchildren.

Visitation Monday, May 26, 2014 from 2pm to 6pm at Olinger Crown Hill Mortuary. Services Tuesday, May 27, 2014, 10am in the Pavilion of Reflection located on the grounds of Olinger Crown Hill.

Gene will be laid to rest at Olinger Crown Hill Cemetery immediately following the funeral service. In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made in Gene's name tot he American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123-1718, or www.cancer.org.