Eugene L. Christenson, 95, passed away Sunday, April 13, 2014 at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. He was born July 6, 1918 to George and Mabel (Wheeler) Christenson in Beadle County near Bonilla, SD. Gene graduated from Bonilla High School in 1936. During high school, Gene enjoyed baseball and would ride the train to Huron, SD to play. He moved to Moody County in 1938 where he met and later married Phyllis Powers on February 21, 1944 in Flandreau. They farmed for 50 years in Clare Township and he began woodworking after they moved into Flandreau in 1986. His wife preceded him in death on January 27, 2013. Gene was a member of Ss. Simon and Jude Catholic Church. He enjoyed playing cards, dancing, music and playing guitar with his siblings. They often played at barn dances. Gene was very witty and enjoyed spending time with his family.

Gene is survived by four children, Shannon (Janet), Amiret, MN, Alan (Ronda), Owatonna, MN, Jane (Gary) Christiansen, Winona, MN, Brian (Laurie), Flandreau, 14 grandchildren, 26 great-grandchildren, and four sisters-in-law, Mary Powers, Marilyn Powers, Elaine Powers and Colette Powers. He was preceded by his wife Phyllis, infant daughter Cheryl, great-granddaughter Brooklyn, parents, three brothers and four sisters.

Mass of Christian Burial will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, April 16, 2014 at Ss. Simon and Jude Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery. Visitation begins at 5:00 pm Tuesday with a 7:00 pm scripture service at Skroch Funeral Chapel.