Eugene Harold Lessen

Eugene Harold “Gene” Lessen passed away peacefully on April 24, 2015, surrounded by his loving family. Born on a farm in Lincoln, Illinois, on May 16, 1931 to Henry John Lessen and Delilah Carolyn (Franz) Lessen, he proudly made his own way in life. He joined the Army in 1949 and served during the Korean War, then returned home and earned a degree on the G.I. Bill from Illinois Wesleyan University. In addition to a diploma, he graduated with a new bride, Frances Spalding of Decatur, Georgia. They moved to Georgia where he launched a successful career in insurance. His climb up the corporate ladder led to numerous moves (including an international tour in Dublin, Ireland) and many adventures for their family of seven. Gene retired from A.I.G. in 1991 and returned to Dallas, Texas. He was a steadfast patriot and loved watching sports (especially his hometown teams – Cowboys, Mavericks, and Rangers), spending time at the lake house, and making frequent trips to the casino. His greatest legacy is three generations that include five children, sixteen grandchildren, nine and a half great grandchildren, and a loving brother and sister in Illinois. A daughter, Karla; grandson, Quinn; and brothers, Hank and Richard, preceded him in death. He is being buried in a private military ceremony in Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery. Donations can be made in his honor to Wounded Warrior Project at www.woundedwarriorproject.org