BLUNT, SD – Eugene W. “Gene” Thorpe, 80, of Blunt, passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls.

Funeral Mass will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, Pierre, with Father Joe Holzhauser, celebrant. A rosary will begin at 9:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will follow Mass at Pleasant Hill Cemetery, Blunt. A luncheon will follow the burial at the Blunt Community Center.

Gene was born on July 12, 1944, in Britton, SD, to Wayne and Marguaritta (Claeys) Thorpe. Gene was raised on the family farm northeast of Hecla, SD, alongside his six siblings. He attended both country school and Hecla School, where he built the foundation for his lifelong dedication to hard work and community. After his schooling, Gene began working on a neighboring farm before venturing into farming on his own in the early 1970s. He continued farming until the 1980s, after which he took a position at Lahman’s Manufacturing, and later, worked for many years at Cenex Co-op. Gene eventually transitioned to working at Frohling’s Meat Market until his retirement.

In 1967, Gene met the love of his life, Mary Forsting, and they were married in January 1970 in Aberdeen, SD. Together, they built a beautiful life and welcomed two children, Deanna and Josh. In 2018, Gene and Mary relocated to Blunt, SD, to be closer to their cherished grandchildren, Sawyer and Skye.

Gene’s grandchildren were the center of his universe. He took immense pride in being a grandfather, dedicating his time and energy to ensuring that Sawyer and Skye felt loved and supported. Whether it was attending their events, spending quality time together, or simply being present in their lives, Gene’s love for his grandchildren knew no bounds. His legacy as a devoted and caring grandfather will be cherished by his family for generations to come.

Gene’s legacy is one of love, dedication, and unwavering support for those he cared about. As a father, he was a steadfast source of guidance and strength, always putting his family first. Gene was also a cherished friend to many, known for his kindness, humor, and generous spirit. He touched the lives of everyone who knew him, leaving behind a legacy of love and friendship that will be remembered for generations.

A lifelong member of the Catholic Church, Gene was also an active participant in the Knights of Columbus. He had a deep love for the outdoors, enjoying trapping, hunting, fishing, and attending his children’s sporting events and 4-H activities.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Mary; his daughter, Deanna Thorpe; his son, Josh (Heidi) Thorpe; and his treasured grandchildren, Skye and Sawyer Thorpe; siblings: Leona (Jerome) Ness, Richard (JoAnne) Thorpe, Raymond (Ellen) Thorpe, Rolland (Mary) Thorpe, and Carla (Richard) Pahl; along with many nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Marguaritta; sister, Madeline; and many lifelong friends from his childhood in Hecla.

Honorary pallbearers will be his grandchildren, Skye and Sawyer Thorpe, along with all of his nieces and nephews.

Luze Funeral Home of Highmore has been entrusted with Gene’s arrangements. Visit www.familyfuneralhome.net

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