Eugene Edward Byrne

Eugene Edward Byrne, known to family and friends as Gene, passed away on June 8, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska, at the age of 87. Born on September 14, 1938, in Tracy, Minnesota, he was the son of Owen Mark Byrne and Winnifred Mary Harrington.

Gene spent his early years on the family farm outside of Currie, Minnesota. Following the death of his mother in 1951, Gene, his father, and his sister moved into Currie, where he attended and graduated from Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic School (IHM). During his school years, he enjoyed playing basketball and Legion baseball.

After graduation, Gene joined the United States Air Force and served four years. While stationed in England, he met Joan Beryl Lucas, whom he married on March 18, 1961, in Wantage, Berkshire, England.

After a brief separation from military service, Gene reenlisted in April 1962 and continued his Air Force career until retiring in 1979 as a Master Sergeant. His military assignments took him and his family throughout the United States and Europe, including England, Turkey, Spain, and Germany.

Gene was devoted to his family and took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He enjoyed sharing stories of his military experiences and the many places he lived throughout his life.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Joan Beryl Byrne; his parents, Owen and Winnifred Byrne; and his sister, Rita Rae Byrne Stallman.

He is survived by his children, Lewis Byrne and Veronica; Anita and Kevin Drummond; and John Byrne and Amber; along with 10 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren.

Gene will be remembered for his dedication to his family, his service to his country, and the values of hard work, faith, and responsibility that guided his life.

"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die." — Thomas Campbell

A Funeral Service will be held at Kahler Dolce Mortuary on June 17, 2026, at 10:00 am , 441 North Washington Street, Papillion, NE 68046, followed by a Committal Service with military honors at Omaha National Cemetery at 1:00 pm.