Eugene “Gene” Colward

Eugene “Gene” Colward, 96, of Fond du Lac passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at the Hospice Home of Hope, Fond du Lac.

Gene was born on October 11, 1929, in Fond du Lac, a son to the late Gary and Elsie (Vandervort) Colward. In 1994, Gene married Marilyn Knutson. Marilyn preceded Gene in death in 2013.

Gene was employed by Mercury Marine for 44 years, retiring in 1992. He enjoyed motorcycling, snowmobiling, trapshooting, sharpshooting, photography and videography. Gene was a proud, lifetime member of the NRA.

Gene is survived by his three nieces, Kelly (Mark) Wischnefski, Vicki Ford and Jodie (Rick) Schneider, many great-nieces and nephews and friends.

In addition to his wife and parents, Gene was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald “Bink” Colward in 2021.

SERVICE: A Mass of Resurrection will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at St. Paul’s Cathedral, 51 W. Division Street, Fond du Lac. A luncheon will follow the Mass. Cremation has taken place. Inurnment will be held in Rienzi Cemetery at a later date.

If desired, memorials can be directed to the Forest Sportsmen’s Club in memory of Gene.

See you later, Alligator!

Kurki Funeral Chapel & Crematory is serving the family. An on-line guestbook can be found at www.kurkifuneralchapel.com. 920-921-4420