Eugene Alvin Wich

Eugene Alvin Wich, 97, passed away Saturday, November 19, 2016, at home and surrounded by family in Cumming, GA after two months under the care of hospice.

Gene was preceded in death by his spouse, Maxine (Whitacre) Wich; his parents, Andrew and Matilda (Haase) Wich; and his three siblings, Norman, Dorothy and Roland.  Gene is survived by his two sisters, Leota Gates and Maggi Thomas, and all their extended family.

Gene was born April 6, 1919.  His early years were spent working on his family’s farm in Wellington, CO.  During the Depression, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corp.  In 1940, Gene joined the Marine Corp and served in the South Pacific during WWII.  His military combat service ended after being wounded fighting on the island of Iwo Jima.

After his military service, Gene remained in California where he married Maxine Whitacre in 1947.  They were married for 64 years.  He worked for the San Diego Gas and Light Co.  After retirement, Gene moved back to Wellington, CO, along with Maxine.

Gene will be best remembered for his service to others and his love and devotion to his wife, Maxine.  He received multiple certificates of appreciation for his volunteer work with the Wellington Senior Center. One of his greatest joys was his time playing harmonica with the Four Star Band.

In Georgia, the family will receive friends from 1:00 -2:00 pm on Wednesday, November 23, 2016 at the funeral home.  A celebration of Gene’s life will follow at 2:00 pm in the McDonald and Son Chapel. In Colorado, his service will be held at Zion Lutheran Church in Wellington on Saturday, November 26, 2016 at 1:00 pm.  Following his service, Gene will be laid to rest at Grandview Cemetery in Fort Collins.

Condolences may be expressed at www.mcdonaldandson.com.

Arrangements by McDonald and Son Funeral Home, 150 Sawnee Drive, Cumming, GA  30040   (770) 886.9899