Eugene E. “Gene” Betz, 88, Jasper
Eugene E. “Gene” Betz, 88, of Jasper, formerly of Schnellville, passed away at 8:10 p.m. on Friday, February 22, 2019, at Northwood Retirement Community in Jasper.
Gene was born in Schnellville on November 29, 1930, to John J. and Arlina R. (Miller) Betz. He married Marie F. Verkamp on June 19,
He graduated from Birdseye High School. Gene was a U.S. Marine veteran who served in the Korean Conflict. He was a member of the St. Anthony American Legion Post #493 and the Jasper VFW Post #673 where he was a member of their Honor Guards. Gene retired as a manager for Jasper Automotive Supply after 37 years of service.
After retirement, he worked
He was a member of Precious Blood Catholic Church in Jasper, and previously a member of Sacred Heart and Holy Family Churches, where he was a Eucharistic Minister, a Sacristan, a member of the Holy Name Society, the Serra Club, and member of the choirs. He was a member of St. Vincent de Paul, where he served as an officer for many years. He and his wife Marie were recipients of the Simon Brute Award.
He was also a member of the Schnellville Community Center and Conservation Club, and a member of the Singing Seniors.
Gene enjoyed fishing, four-wheeling, and outdoor activities with family.
He is survived by his wife, Marie F. Betz of Jasper; three daughters, Debbie Rice (Bill) Friendsville, Tenn., Judy Baer (Tim) of Ireland and Betty Jenkins (Steve) of Jasper; two sons, Ken Betz (Ginger) of Mooresville, Ind. and Tom Betz (Jane) of Jasper; 13 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; four sisters, Margaret Knies (Linus) of Jasper, Sr. Lucia Betz O.S.B. of Beech Grove, Ind., Frances Schepers of Hopkinsville, Ky. and Erlene Gehlhausen (Bernie) of Newburgh; two brothers, Joe Betz (Cyrilla) of Huntingburg and Richard Betz (Loretta) of Dale; one sister-in-law, Helen Theising of Schnellville.
Preceding him in death were four sisters, Sr. Bede Betz, O.S.B., Clara Mae Hohl, Josepha Betz, and Augusta Hopf; and two brothers, Lee and Albert Betz.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Eugene E. “Gene” Betz will be held at noon on Wednesday, February 27, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Schnellville with burial to follow in the church cemetery.
The St. Anthony American Legion Post #493 will conduct military gravesite rites. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the noon service time on Wednesday, February 27, 2019, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Schnellville.
Memorial contributions may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Precious Blood Catholic Church, the Schnellville Community Center, or a favorite charity.
Online condolences may be made at www.becherkluesner.com.
Gene was my best friend all through grade school and high school. I have many fond memories. We shared the same wedding anniversary. My condolences to his wife, Marie, and to all of his family.