Eugene O. Danner

Gene, as he was known to all, passed away peacefully on March 21, 2024, in Fresno, California. Born on July 28, 1949, in Fowler, California, to Bertha May and Artie Eugene Danner, Gene lived a full 74 years.

Gene's formative years were filled with valuable lessons. He learned a strong work ethic and the importance of striving for excellence from his father, who also instilled in him a love for tinkering with cars and exploring the outdoors through fishing and hunting trips. Meanwhile, his grandparents nurtured his spiritual side, fostering the deep faith that would remain a cornerstone of his life.

Life presented Gene with some significant obstacles. He served bravely in the Vietnam War and later faced a debilitating industrial accident that poisoned his body and damaged his lungs. Even in his early 70’s, he battled and conquered cancer. Through it all, Gene displayed unwavering resilience, always pushing forward with a determined spirit.

A master machinist and engineer, Gene possessed an unwavering work ethic and dedication to his craft. He inspired his fellow workers with his leadership skills and ability to translate creative ideas into tangible

solutions. Among his many accomplishments, Gene played a key role on the team that developed the Upright grape harvester, a machine that revolutionized the industry. His innovative spirit further shone through his design of two unique hydraulic systems for log splitters. Leveraging his expertise, Gene transitioned to a successful construction career, where his meticulous attention to detail as a final grader for track housing projects left a lasting mark on Salinas Valley and San Joaquin Valley communities.

Gene cherished his three children, Timothy, John and Jeanine. He taught them how to swim and enjoy the outdoors as well as value a good day of fishing.

In 1994, Fresno, California, fate brought Gene the love of his life, Linda Van Buskirk. From their very first meeting, Gene knew he'd found his forever partner. They married in 1997 and spent the next 27 years building a cherished life together in Squaw Valley. Gene's devotion to Linda shone through in the way he meticulously crafted their home, ensuring it was a safe and manageable haven for her.

Gene brought warmth to his home with the delicious aromas of his cooking. A master of comfort food, his legendary fried potatoes, fried chicken, tacos, and perfectly barbecued steaks were a mainstay at family gatherings. For Gene's extended family, these meals transcended mere sustenance; they were cherished moments of togetherness, forever etched in their memories.

Gene possessed an insatiable passion for solving problems. Family and friends knew him as the ultimate fixer – someone who could tackle any challenge and wouldn't hesitate to lend a helping hand. If you needed something, he’d be there. Beyond simply resolving the issue, Gene thrived on the process. He transformed broken objects into something better, turning concepts into creations, and relishing the learning journey along the way.

Gene is survived by his wife, Linda Danner, two sons John and Timothy Danner, one daughter Jeanine Danner, two grandsons Jessy Klemstine and Tobin Townsend, and one granddaughter Tiffany Danner. Gene left this life with a strong mind and will. Once he received his final prognosis of not being recoverable, he asked for a Pepsi, told his family he loved them and drifted off to sleep one last time.

A memorial service will be held April 12, 2024 at St. Rita's Indian Mission in Squaw Valley. A rosary will be recited at 9:30 am, followed by a funeral mass. Gene will be laid to rest at Squaw Valley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the American Cancer Society.