Final Salute

Eugene John Wessels, known affectionately as Gene to his friends and family, passed away peacefully of natural causes on June 18, 2024, at the age of 95, at his residence in West Point, Texas. Gene’s life was a testament to the strength and warmth of his spirit, and he will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Gene was born on September 3, 1928, in West Point. After graduating from La Grange High School, he bravely served in the Korean War as a member of the U.S. Air Force. Shortly before being discharged from the USAF, Gene married the love of his life, Nellie Ruth Miller, on June 27, 1952. He continued his service as a Seabee in the U.S. Naval Reserves achieving the rank of Chief Petty Officer before retiring after 26 years of military service. His commitment to his country was mirrored by his dedication to his career as a surveying engineer with the Texas State Highway Department in the Austin area, where he retired after 31 years of distinguished service.

Family was the cornerstone of Gene’s life. He is survived by his children: Fred Wessels and wife, Gloria, of Danbury, Texas; Sylvia Wessels Hocutt and husband, David, of Angleton, Texas; Gary Wessels of West Point, Texas; and Tina Wessels Shafer and husband, David, of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Melissa Wessels Wheeler and husband, Jason; Erica Wessels Nunley; Robert Hocutt and wife, Silvia; Cosette Veneski and husband, Andrew; and Kameryn McLaughlin, as well as his 13 great-grandchildren and numerous nephews, nieces, and cousins.

Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 70 years, Nellie Ruth Wessels, his grandchild Frederick Wessels, and his sisters, Laura Havemann and Ruth Petty.

An avid tennis player, Gene’s love for the game was only matched by his passion for conversation and connection.

He treasured the moments spent with family and friends and seized every opportunity to explore the world. Gene’s adventurous spirit took him to all 50 states, Puerto Rico, Germany, Korea, and China, creating a collage of memories that he would fondly recount.

In retirement, Gene found solace and joy in the natural beauty that surrounded him. He could often be found landscaping his riverfront property or tending to his prized pecan orchard. He also enjoyed watching daytime TV game shows, with “The Price Is Right” being one of his daily favorites.

Gene’s life was a testament to the values of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of family. His warm smile and outgoing personality will be remembered by all who were fortunate enough to cross his path. As we bid farewell to this remarkable man, we take comfort in knowing that he lived life to the fullest.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 27, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations. Family will receive friends from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Funeral Services will be held at St. Peter Lutheran Church, 640 Prairie Valley Rd., West Point, Texas 78963, at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 28, 2024. Burial will follow at Prairie Valley Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Prairie Valley Cemetery or to St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations, 208 W. Pearl St., La Grange, Texas. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com.

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