Eugene Ray Sargent

Eugene Ray Sargent was born May 11, 1924, in Shingletown, Calif., and raised in Eureka near Freshwater. He joined the angels in heaven on Jan. 11, 2010. Eugene was a decorated U.S. Naval officer traveling the seas by ship during World War II. He returned home to marry the love of his life after a short courtship; Eugene and Ruth set out to have an adventure of a lifetime. They cared for one another for over 63 years living and loving life for their children and grandchildren.

Eugene was an avid gardener and shared the bounty of his favorite past time with everyone he loved. Family and friends waited eagerly each season for the garden gifts grown and prepared with such care. He and Ruth did this together every year.

Eugene had many friends and family and was loved by all that knew him. He made a difference in the lives he touched. He lived by example. Eugene looked forward to the VFW barbecue and Christmas dinner each year. It gave him a chance to reunite with many of the men and women who had served and given back to the community.

If you took a walk with Eugene, he knew everyone by name in the store and they knew just how to take care of him.

Eugene is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; sister, Elaine “Duck”; and nephews, Bob and Eddie; and his cousin, Ronnie Bartel whom he wanted to thank for their loyalty and love for sharing stories of the war and the love of his children, Wanda Wills, Jeanne Hendricks; and grandchildren, Troy and Sandy Wells, Denise and Gerald Vicars, Lenee and Rob Greene, Justin Hill, Dee Ann and Donnie Iversen, Katie and John Hare; great-grandchildren, Hailey Matt, Megan, Keono, Van, Bonnie, Rilley, Gabrielle, Emily, MyKenzie; and great-great-grandchild, Kayden.

Many heart felt thanks to friends and family for your thoughtfulness, care, and love. Hospice made the journey to heaven a little easier and we were thankful you were here for our family and community.

Eugene will be met in heaven by his youngest daughter, Bonnie and many of his siblings and friends. We know you will hear music and get to garden in heaven. May you rest in peace, Eugene Sargent. We love and will miss you. In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local hospice.

Friends and family are invited to a gathering at the Fortuna Veterans Hall, located at 1426 Main St., Fortuna, Saturday, Jan. 30, at noon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Goble's Fortuna Mortuary.