Eugene B. “Gene” Brehm

Racine Eugene B. “Gene” Brehm 99 passed away peacefully on Saturday morning February 16, 2013 in Wheaton Franciscan All Saints Medical Center, 30 days short of his 100th birthday. He was born March 18, 1913 in Burlington, WI the son of Albert and Katherine (nee: Lehrman) Brehm. Gene was married and widowed three times, first to Gertrude Becker in 1945, to Helen Mandernack in 1980, and to Bernadette Lackey in 1990. He was employed with Western Printing for 35 years, retiring in 1974. Gene was an active member of St. Edward’s Church and St. Joseph’s Church. He served his Country in the U.S. Army during WWII, in the 67th Engineer Company Topographic Division. Upon discharge he attained the rank of Technician 4th as a sergeant. Gene was an avid gardener, and outdoorsman who fished, hunted, camped, raised homing pigeons, and recorded many of his travels through photography. Woodworking was a lifetime interest. During the last several years he kept busy walking in the neighborhood, reading from his extensive library collection or playing cards with his children during their visits. Survivors include his children; Kathy Punsalan of Hawaii, Betty (Grant) Bogyo of British Columbia, James, Michael, and Anthony all of Racine, grandchildren; Melissa (Greg), Jeremy (Rosie), Trevor (Tara), and Tim. Gene is further survived by 4 great grandsons, step grandchildren other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, 2 brothers; Harold and Lawrence, and a sister Margaret. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Saturday February 23, 2013 at 10 a.m. in St. Edward Catholic Church 1425 Grove Ave. Fr. Richard Molter officiating. Entombment with full military honors will follow in Calvary Cemetery garden crypts. The family will receive guests on Friday from 5-7 pm in Strouf Funeral Home. ;