Kenneth E. "Gene" Pheasant

Kenneth E. “Gene” Pheasant of Spring Mills passed away August 15, 2024, at Mount Nittany Medical Center.  Gene was born on January 7, 1931, in Alfarata, PA.  He was raised by his grandmother, the late Rosa M. Henry.  Gene was a graduate of Lewistown High School. 

In October 1960, Gene married the former Betty L. Marquardt, who survives.  He is also survived by his sisters in law, Mae Gengler, Marian Smith, Linda Marquardt and numerous nieces and nephews.  In addition to his grandmother, Gene was preceded in death by his grandfather, parents and half-brother, Ronald.

Gene proudly served our country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict.  He was stationed in Germany until honorably discharged as an Airman 1st class.  He was employed as a bookkeeper at the Mifflin County Public Library.  Gene had a passion for music and learned to play the guitar at age five.  He won many talent contests playing his guitar and singing.  Later on he played with bands on the local radio stations in Lewistown as well as the former WFBG television station in Altoona.  Gene was a member of the New Hope Lutheran Church in Spring Mills and enjoyed cards and bingo. 

Family and friends will be received on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at the Steven R. Neff Funeral Home in Millheim.  The funeral will follow at 11:00 am with Pastor Lauretta Dietrich officiating.  Gene will be laid to rest in the Fairview West Cemetery with military honors.  Contributions in memory of Gene may be given to New Hope Lutheran Church, 119 Cobblestone Ct., Spring Mills, PA 16875.  Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.stevenrnefffuneralhome.com.

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