Eugene G. "Gene" Zarek

Eugene G. "Gene" Zarek Naples, FL

Eugene G. "Gene" Zarek, 89 of Naples, FL, formerly of Burlington, passed away Wednesday, March 21, 2012 at Lakeside Pavilion Care and Rehabilitation Cen ter in Naples, FL.

Gene was born October 8, 1922 in Milwaukee the youngest son of Joseph and Frances (nee Szwanka) Zarek. Gene grew up and graduated from Pulaski High School in Milwaukee. He attended Whitewater Teachers College before enlisting in the Army during WWII. As a 1st Lieutenant in the Army Air Corps he served as a bombardier on a B-24 Liberator. On his 26th mission, Gene was shot down over Germany, and was held as a Prisoner of War for seven months before being liberated by American Troops. He then returned to Whitewater College where he participated in sports and earned his Master's Degree in Education. In his senior year, Gene was named Whitewaters Athlete of the Year.

On August 16, 1947 he married Darlene Berkowski. They moved to West Bend, where he taught Commercial Science and coached football at the High School.

Gene and Darlene moved to Burlington, in 1952 to begin his career in the insurance business. They raised their five children in Burlington. Gene was very active in the community and served on numerous committees including at St. Mary's Catholic Church where he was a member. He also was a member and Past President of the Burlington Rotary Club, member and Past President of the Independent Insurance Agents Association for the state of Wisconsin.

He was an avid golfer and member of Tuckaway Country Club for many years. His business, Zarek Insurance in Burlington continues to operate today under the ownership of his son, Paul.

Following the death of Darlene, Gene married Marianne Brechler. They located to Naples, FL where they have enjoyed many happy years and loving friends at the Glades Country Club Community.

While in Florida, Gene was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife, Marianne Brechler Zarek; five children, Robert Zarek, Marykaye (Daniel) Blott, James (Donna) Zarek, Paul (Joan) Zarek, and Annmarie Wiemer; nine grandchildren; and two great grandchildren. Gene is further survived by three stepchildren; eight step grandchildren; and 16 stepgreat grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Darlene; and two brothers, Ervin and Raymond.

Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, March 28th at 6:00 p.m., at St. Mary's Catholic Church, 108 McHenry Street, Burlington. A reception will follow immediately in Heim Hall.

Relatives and friends can visit with the family before mass in St. Mary's Good Shepherd Chapel from 4:00 until 5:45 p.m.

Burial with full military honors will take place at a later date in Arlington National Cemetery, Arlington, VA.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Catholic Central High School.

Schuette-Daniels

Family Funeral Home

625 Browns Lake Dr.

Burlington, WI 53105

262-763-3434

www.danielsfamilyfune ral.com