Gene Allen Ehle

MCFARLAND / STOUGHTON – Gene Allen Ehle of McFarland, formerly of Stoughton, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 2017, with his loving wife, Rhonda Schultz Ehle and his step-daughter, Chantelle Schultz by his side. He was born on April 11, 1936, in Stoughton, the son of Wilmer E. and Ruth Evelyn (Onsrud) Ehle. Gene graduated from Stoughton High School in 1954. Following graduation, he joined the Air Force. Gene was a strong patriot and loved his country dearly. On Dec. 31, 1955, Gene married Shirley Mae Straavaldson. Together, they had eight wonderful children. In Jan. of 1976, Gene accepted a job in Burley, Idaho, where he lived for many years. Gene and Shirley later divorced. Gene moved back to Stoughton to help with the care of his mother. There, he met Barbara Ann Wethal-Haak, and they were married on Sept. 11, 1993. Barbara passed away on March 24, 2000, in a tragic swimming accident in Jamaica. Her three daughters were a wonderful part of Gene's life. He met Rhonda Schultz 13 years ago and she became a very special part of Gene's life. She took great care of Gene during his last few years. They were married on Sept. 17, 2016. Rhonda brought such happiness and laughter into his life as well as her children. Gene is survived by his loving wife, Rhonda; her children, Chantelle, Jenalea and Jesse; his loving children, Debbie Ehle (Bob-deceased) Walters, Joni Ehle (Dennis) Harris, Scott (Barbara) Ehle, Marc (Beth) Ehle, Cheryl Ehle-deceased (Sheldon) Hatley, Kevin (Diane) Ehle, Tracy Ehle (Darren) Wright, and Steve (Heidi) Ehle; his siblings, Richard (Mary) Ehle, Joan Heimlich and Sharon (Terry) Anthoney; 24 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents; his very beloved and beautiful daughter, Cheryl Ehle Hatley, whom we lost on Oct. 18, 2016; son-in-law, Robert Walters, husband of Debbie, whom we lost on Aug. 26, 2016; brother, Ronald Ehle; sister-in-law, Patricia Ehle; niece, Loni Ehle; and wife, Barbara Wethal. A Celebration of Gene's Life will be held at a later date. We will miss him. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com. Gunderson Stoughton Funeral & Cremation Care 1358 Highway 51 N. @ Jackson St. (608)873-4590