He was the loving husband of Linda L. Ward (nee Bryant) for 61 years, cherished father and father-in-law of Donna and Mel Verbeck, Tish and Gary Wendt, Paula (Ward) Stein, and Mary and Jeffrey Becher, adoring Grandpa of Kathryn (Katy) Verbeck, Melvyn II and Stephanie Verbeck, Sean Verbeck, Alex Wendt, Jennifer Stein and Matt Milka, Molly and Austin Burgert, Evan Becher, Allison and Justin Agnew and Lily Becher, proud Great-Grandpa of Melvyn III and Henry Verbeck, Nolan and Evelyn Milka, Cason, Reed and Josie (due in July) Burgert and Hannah Agnew. Dear uncle, great-uncle, great-great uncle, cousin and friend to many.
He was preceded in death by his brothers Dale Ward and Bill Ward, special brothers-in-law Colonel Swiney, Bill Bryant and Ronald Bryant, special sisters-in-law Barbara (Tootie) Swiney, Edith Bryant, Emma Davis and Bobbie French, special nephew-in-law John Gleghorn and long time co-worker and friend, Russ Williams.
Gene was born and raised in Arkansas, living in many areas following his father’s saw mill business. He was afflicted with polio at the young age of 3, but never let that hold him down. He loved to fish, hunt and was an excellent pool shooter earning him the nickname of “Minnesota Slim” from his dear friend Dave Innis. He was always up for a good argument. Gene worked for the same trucking company for 39 plus years through many name changes with the last being Preston Trucking. Gene was extremely proud of being a charter member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles Chapter 3678 of Arnold, MO. He proudly served for 42 years holding office many of those years with most recently 10 years as Treasurer. He was to be reinstalled on the day of his passing. Most importantly, he loved spending time with his family and friends.
He will be dearly missed here on Earth, but Heaven will rejoice in his company.
