Gene Leslie Means

Gene Leslie Means, 86, of Sunnyside, Washington passed away on September 15, 2021. Grandpa was born on November 29, 1934 in Wisner, Nebraska to the parents of Raymond and Edna (Bloedorn) Means. Grandpa did not graduate from High School but did obtain his GED later on in life. He quit school to help his father with his Construction business building houses.

On April 29, 1956 he married the love of his life Maxine Wachter in Hader, Nebraska. Shortly after the two married they joined his family in Sunnyside, Washington where his dad moved his construction business. Grandpa and Grandma were blessed with four boys, Doug, Dave, Rodney, and Todd. In 1965, after his father passed unexpectedly, Grandpa took over the business and continued building and remodeling many homes here in Sunnyside. He retired for about 6 months, then he got bored, and decided to pick up a newspaper route for about 10-15 years for the Yakima Herald Republic.

Grandpa was a simple man; he would have lived on Cheerios and Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches if it had not been for Grandma cooking her delicious meals. His hobbies were woodworking, camping when their kids were growing up, playing pinnacle with friends, and setting in his recliner. He was a long-term member of the Calvary Lutheran Church. He loved watching the Seahawks and Mariners. And whenever he was able to, he enjoyed watching his Grandkids and Great Grandkids sporting events.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years Maxine Means; Doug (Becky) Means of Rochchester, WA; Dave (Lori) Means of Auburn, WA; Rodney Means of Richland, WA; and Todd (Audra) Means of Sunnyside, WA. His grandchildren Bambi (Matt), Janine (Les), and Jacob; Nathan, Bradley, Natalie, Amanda, Landon, and Ryan; Melissa (Josh), and Matt; Kelsea (Jeff) and Shana; and 12 great grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Karen May, Derald (Renate) Means, and Melva (Richard) Eubanks, and numerous Nieces and Nephews.

He is Preceded in death by his parents Raymond and Edna Means and Brother-in-law Leonard May.

Viewing and visitation will be Monday, September 20, 2021, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. at Smith Funeral Home, Sunnyside, WA. A Graveside service will be held Tuesday, September 21, 2021, at 11:00 am at Lower Valley Memorial Gardens in Sunnyside, WA. Those wishing to sign Gene’s online memorial book may do so at www.funeralhomesmith.com Smith Funeral Home Sunnyside is in care of arrangements

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