Eugene R. Stender

Eugene (Gene) R Stender a loving Christian husband and father, passed away peacefully on October 9th, 2013. He was 90 years old. Gene was born in Kalamazoo MI on January 18, 1923. He was the son of Frank and Cecilia Stender. He was the fourth child of five and youngest son. He is survived by his sisters Dorothy (Dr. Edmund) Talanda and Helen Johnson. He was preceded in death by his sister Frances Woodhams and his brother Bud. Gene and Eva raised eight children; Dave (Mary) Suwanee, Georgia, Dale (Gloria) Stender, Kalamazoo, Craig (Susan) Stender Paw Paw, Michigan, Chris (Joyce ) Stender, San Antonio, Texas, Terrence Stender, Kalamazoo, Gordy Stender Kalamazoo, Mark (Linda) Stender, Alpena, and Elaine (Joe) White, Holland, Michigan. 18 grandchildren, 19 great grandchildren and counting, 1 great great grand child. Numerous nieces and nephews. Gene grew up in Kalamazoo, Michigan. He had a love for the outdoors swimming and playing hockey and baseball in his youth. He went to Western State College, then Gene enlisted and served in the Army Air Corps during WWII as a 1st Lieutenant. While in the Army Air Corp, on March 20, 1945 Gene married the love of his life, Eva Klein. They have been married for 68 years. Gene graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1952 and began his career as a Mechanical Engineer. He worked many years as a Professional Engineer for Sarvis Associates designing Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning systems. Many buildings in the surrounding area are a witness to his work. Gene enjoyed coaching little league baseball teams, playing tennis with his family, swimming, golfing, bowling and playing cards. When you stopped by the house, you had to be ready for lively discussions and games of chess or cards. Gene was always willing to try new things, and at age 50 he started to learn down hill skiing. Friends are being received Friday 2-4 and 6-8 PM with a scripture service at 7:30 PM at the Redmond Funeral Home, 4100 S. Westnedge Ave. Kalamazoo, MI 49008, (269) 343-6156. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday at 10 AM at St. Augustine Cathedral with Rev. Msgr. Thomas Martin, Celebrant. Entombment will be in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society or St. Augustine Cathedral. www.redmondfuneralhomes.net