Eugene "Gene" J. Klinger

Eugene "Gene" J. Klinger, 72, Ringle, died Wednesday April 4, 2018 at Ascension St. Clare's Hospital, Weston. Gene was born Nov. 13, 1945 to the late Bernard and Regina (Czechowicz) Klinger in Wausau. He married Joyce Drewek on Aug. 27, 1988 in Wausau. After graduating from Wausau East High School, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy where he served his country honorably for four years. After returning to Wausau he was employed with J.I. Case and later with Norlens Manufacturing where he retired in 2005. Gene loved fishing, boating and sharing that passion with his wife, Joyce. Woodworking was a favorite past-time, as was hunting in its season. Gene enjoyed many trips with his wife, Joyce, to Europe, Alaska, Jamaica, Bahamas and the United States. Gene visited all 50 states. And Gene was honored to be included in for the 28th Never Forgotten Honor Flight to Washington DC in May of 2017. Survivors include his wife, Joyce; his son, Jason (Marla) Klinger; his daughter, Becki Benaszeski (Rob Hilber); and four grandchildren, Josh, Justin, Casey and Elise. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Janice Klinger and Diane Van Price. Funeral services will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Monday April 9, 2018 at Peterson/Kraemer Funeral Home 1302 Sixth Street, Wausau. Friends and family may call from 4:00 p.m. until the time of the services at the funeral home. Burial will be at Restlawn Memorial Park, Wausau at a later date. Veteran Honors will be given by American Legion Post 10, Wausau Honor Guard at the funeral home. Online condolences may be given at www.petersonkraemer.com.