WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Eugene Lawrence “Gene” Brundige, age 82, of Colon, passed away Thursday, October 20, 2022 at Vibrant Life Senior Living in Kalamazoo.
He was born March 3, 1940 in Three Rivers, the son of Harold H. and Margarete (Genschel) Brundige, and graduated from Three Rivers High School with the Class of 1958. In 1979 he moved to Schoolcraft, where he lived until retiring to Palmer Lake in Colon.
A draftsman by trade, Gene worked many years for Johnson Corporation and later for FEMA, from which he retired after a decade. He loved designing, tinkering, and making things.
On February 1, 1980, he married Kathryn Swanwick. High school sweethearts who went their separate ways, they were reunited years later after an encounter at a gas station in which his brother asked her if she was single. The couple shared 42 years together, with travel a favorite activity – whether taking family Disney vacations, traversing America in a motor home, or the highlight of their adventures, visiting Australia.
A tremendous Michigan State Spartan fan, Gene enjoyed living on the lake, boating, and camping. When his daughters were younger, he was active in their 4-H horse program. As grandchildren came along, he became a full-time grandpa – always on call and willing to help. He had a sweet personality and a wonderful sense of humor.
Remaining to cherish his memory are his wife; daughters, Shelley (Marty) Wegner, Jill Brundige, Lorrie Brundige, and Sarah (David) Aviles; grandchildren, Emily (Brendon) Phelan, Brent Wegner, Eric Wegner, Mandy (Adam) Zywicki, and Mitch Noonan; a large extended family.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents and six siblings.
Visitation will be held Saturday, October 29, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. at Hohner Funeral Home, 1004 Arnold St., Three Rivers. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home with Phil Webb officiating.
Donations in Gene’s memory may be directed to the American Heart Association. Envelopes are available at the funeral home.
