Gene Arlen Harland, 75

Gene Arlen Harland, 75, passed away March 24, 2006, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home. Gene was born June 7, 1930, in Frankfort, Ind. His mother died during childbirth. Raised by maternal grandparents, Gene enjoyed life on their small farm. Working the dairy cows and operating the cream separator proved "tough duty." Fishing for bass and rabbit-hunting helped to balance his responsibilities. He remembers always having "what we needed" during the Depression.

After high-school graduation and a tour of duty with the U.S. Navy, he and Peggy Sheets were married in 1951. The couple moved to Iron River, Mich., to develop a resort. Returning to Indiana, Gene embarked on a 30-year career with Sears, transferring to Kalispell in 1966.

In his adult years, Gene enjoyed competitive shooting and reloading ammunition, as well as hunting and fishing.

He was a member of the Eagles, and he and Peggy enjoyed traveling, which included visits to England and elsewhere in Europe, Las Vegas and Houston.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Peggy, in 1994.

He is survived by four sons, Preston and wife, Anne, of Houston, Kevin and wife, Shelley, of Kalispell, Cameron of London, and Mason of Seattle; 8 grandchildren, Alisha, Ryan, Chase, Brittney, Kyle, Josh, Katie and Craig; and one great-grandchild, Talon.

A private family burial is planned.

Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.