Gene Franklin Tonnies, Sr.

Gene Franklin Tonnies, Sr., born on May 4, 1936, in Evansville, Indiana, passed away on February 9, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy marked by duty, dedication, and love.

A proud veteran of the United States Navy, Gene embodied the values of honor, courage, and commitment. His military experience shaped his character and instilled in him a profound sense of service, which he carried throughout his life. Gene served at Naval Training Center (NTC) and Naval Hospital Great Lakes (IL), Naval Hospital Millington (TN), Navy Clinical Lab (Bethesda, MD), Naval Hospital Portsmouth (VA), Naval Submarine Base New London (CT), and Naval Station Mayport (FL). In addition to his ashore assignments, Gene also served at sea on the USS Newport News (CA-148), USS Marias (AO-57), USS Enterprise (CVN-65) (Plankowner), and the USS Puget Sound (AD-38).

Gene also served during wartime and through multiple crises, serving on the USS Enterprise during the Cuban Missile Crisis (Oct 1962) and deploying to Danang, Vietnam (Naval Support Activity Danang) from January 1968 to January 1969. While in Vietnam, Gene experienced the Tet Offensive (Feb 1968) and as a Hospital Corpsman, treated thousands of wounded Soldiers and Marines. Gene ended his naval career at the rank of Hospital Corpsman First Class (HM1/E-6). Gene was a devoted sailor, medical professional, mental health/drug counselor, and family man.

Gene took great joy in pursuing various hobbies, like formal education (in various forms), reading (military books), movies (military and western films), genealogical/family research, and building models. His keen model interests were in trains and naval aircraft—showcasing his creativity and meticulousness, skills that he applied to all facets of his life.

Gene is survived by his loving children, Gene (Dayleen) Tonnies Jr. and Lisa (Todd) Stephenson. He cherished his role as a grandfather to his beloved grandchildren, Justin (Molly) Tonnies and Janelle (Jay) Hachmeister. As a great-grandfather, he found immense joy in the company of Henry, Jett, Gabriel, and Jacy Lee, who brought light and laughter into his life.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Henry Tonnies and Maxine (Vogel) Harris; as well as by his beloved aunt, Clotilda "Tae" Mills; and uncle, Alvin Mills.

His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege to know him, serving as a reminder of the impact one individual can have through love and service. He will be laid to rest privately at the Indiana Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Madison, Indiana.

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