Eugene Earl Sheets

MADISON - Eugene Earl Sheets, age 94, of Madison, passed away on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024, at Clement Manor in Greenfield, Wis. He was born on Aug. 31, 1929, in Middletown, N.Y., the son of Herbert and Crystal (Wiseman) Sheets.   

Gene treasured memories of summers spent working on his grandparents’ farm in Virginia, where he learned to value hard work and developed a deep appreciation for the land. He also loved the independence of riding a train from New York to Virginia at the beginning of summer and back again in the fall.

After graduating from Middletown High School in 1947, Gene entered college at Fordham University, later transferring to Michigan State, where he graduated with a B.S. in Civil Engineering in 1952 (and a steadfast allegiance to the Spartans).

Following college graduation, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Army. It was during the Korean War, and he joked that he hoped to see more of the world, but instead saw “far too much of Oklahoma." Gene did not like Oklahoma’s weather, but he relished his time in the military, the camaraderie of his fellow soldiers and the pride of serving his country.

In 1954, Gene accepted a job as a Civil Engineer for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and began a career that lasted until his retirement in 1994. Gene was proud of the work he did for the Wisconsin DOT and enjoyed his coworkers, forming friendships that lasted for decades.

Gene met Cecilia Rieschl at the Memorial Union in 1955 (he was looking for a card game, she went there to dance, they met and ended up talking). Gene and Cecilia married on Aug. 18, 1956, in Menasha, Wis. They loved each other very much and shared many adventures. They raised their children, along with a houseful of dogs and other animal companions, plus grew a sizable vegetable garden and beautiful flower beds. Gene and Cecilia enjoyed living in Madison, swimming and canoeing and ice fishing on area lakes, hiking together with their dogs in country and state parks, and taking many, many drives along winding county roads. They had season tickets to plays and concerts and performances on the UW campus. They also loved dining out, especially at area Korean and Thai restaurants.

Gene was a member of Christ Presbyterian Church for 70 years, joining when he first moved to Madison. The church was a big part of Gene’s life, he was an active member and volunteer. He treasured the many friends he made at the church. He was a devout Presbyterian and faithfully attended Sunday services. He took great pleasure and pride in his church’s beautiful music program, choirs and a splendid pipe organ.

He was a friendly, kind and outgoing man who loved talking with people. He had a great sense of humor, and a positive attitude, finding the sunny side in just about any situation. He loved animals, especially dogs, and simply adored babies. Gene had great faith in God and was not afraid of death, he was looking forward to being reunited with his beloved wife, Cecilia.

Gene is survived by his daughters, Ann (James) Nickell and Barbara (Ira) Segal; son, Bill (Michelle) Sheets; seven grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Jessica and Sarah Sheets, Jonathan Nickell, Caroline (Connor) Cummiskey and Hans Lundt; step-granddaughter, Krista (Mike) Bean; and four great-grandchildren. He is further survived by nephews, Larry (Susan) Sheets, Douglas (Joanne) Sheets and David (Carol Waddell) Sheets. Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Cecilia Sheets; parents; and brother-and sister-in-law, Herbert and Mary Sheets.

A memorial service will be held at CHRIST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 944 E. Gorham St., Madison, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 17, 2024, with the Rev. Sharol Hayner and the Rev. Phil Haslinger presiding. Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday.

Memorials may be made to the Dane County Humane Society or to The River Food Pantry. The family wishes to thank the staff of Clement Manor, Agrace HospiceCare and Allay Hospice for all of their wonderful care and support given to Eugene and his family. Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East

Funeral & Cremation Care

5203 Monona Drive

(608) 221-5420