Edward "Gene" Eugene Slaten

Edward Eugene “Gene” Slaten, 93, peacefully passed to his heavenly home on February 14, 2022. He was a beloved Christian husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. Gene loved the Lord and cherished his family. He was loved by many and will be deeply missed. He was a member of First Lutheran Church.

Gene was born in Chattanooga and was a graduate of the Central High School Class of 1946 where he participated in football and boxing. Following graduation he worked at the Chattanooga News Free Press as a stereotyper for more than 20 years. Gene’s father opened the Lee Slaten Furniture Store in 1939 where even as a young boy he enjoyed working alongside his father, learning how to restore and refinish furniture. He worked with his father and brother part-time at the store originally located on Main Street prior to becoming the owner. The store was relocated to Brainerd Road in 1972 and eventually moved to Fort Olgethorpe in 1998 under the new name of Slaten Discount Furniture. He and his son, Ed, worked together in the family business for 50 plus years. He continued to go to “work” almost every day until health issues arose in November 2021.

While Gene loved his work in the family furniture business, he also enjoyed traveling with Myra in their various campers or with tour groups around the country. He enjoyed square dancing, church softball, swimming, boating and any time spent with family.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 68 years, Myra, and precious daughter Nanette as well as his parents, Charles Lee and Nora Ada Slaten.

He is survived by his daughter, Debbie (Rick) Sparks and son Ed (Pam) Slaten. He is also survived by grandchildren Ryan (Jennifer) Sparks, April (Steve) Gatlin, Hannah (Matt) Soloff, Heath Slaten, and great-grandchildren Libby, Sophie, Luke, Jack, Madeline, and Kennedy. Also surviving Gene are his brother, Charles Slaten and sister, Peggy (Bob) Twomey as well as nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will receive friends Sunday, February 20, 2022 from 2-4 p.m. at the East Brainerd Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, February 21, 2022 at First Lutheran Church, 2800 McCallie Ave., Chattanooga, TN 37404 with Rev. Donald Welmer officiating.

Interment will follow at Hamilton Memorial Gardens 5401 Hwy. 153, Hixson, TN. 37343.