Gene Robert Walton

Gene Walton of Rush City passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025 at his home at the age of 87.

Gene Robert Walton was born February 19, 1937 to Merton and Mildred (Doughty) Walton in Glen Lake, Minnesota.

Gene graduated from high school in Hopkins, Minnesota in 1956. He then went right to work at Honeywell at the age of 18, where he worked as a draftsman for 35 years until he retired at the age of 53. 

On March 1, 1963, Gene married Eileen (Weber) in Excelsior, Minnesota. They lived in Hopkins for nine months until they purchased a hobby farm on Goose Lake in December 1963. It was always his dream to own Lakeshore as he always loved the water, whether it be fishing, boating or water skiing with friends and family. He water skied up to the age of 65, and was even able to ski doubles with two of his grandsons. Gene and Eileen were married 56 years before losing the love of his life in 2019. They raised three sons and one daughter. 

Gene loved to be outside and work in his many beautiful flower gardens. He enjoyed his daily walks, even in the cold. He also had a wonderful gift of woodworking and carving. He carved a great number of birds, fish, and flowers, which are all treasured by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He was a man of strong faith and a long time member of Fish Lake Baptist Church where he spent many years serving in leadership. He had a passion for studying the Bible, and when he was no longer able to read it, he spent many hours listening to an audio Bible. He had a big love for his family and enjoyed nothing more than having them around. He will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him. 

Gene is survived by children Doug (Caralee) Walton of Stanchfield, Duane (Cindy) Walton of Lindale, Texas, Denise (Dan) Behrendt of Rush City; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; brother James Walton of Dallas, Texas; nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents Merton and Mildred Walton; wife Eileen Walton; son Dale Walton; granddaughter Brittany Walton; brother Dennis Walton; sisters-in-law Kay Walton and Jan Walton.

A celebration of Gene's life will take place at 11 AM; Saturday, March 8, 2025 with a gathering of family and friends one hour prior to the service all at the Olson Funeral Chapel in Rush City.

Memorials may be directed to: Wycliff Bible Translators, PO Box 620143, Orlando, FL 32862, or to a charity of your choice. 

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the: Funeral and Cremation Service of Rush City, Olson Chapel
www.FuneralAndCremationService.com