Photo courtesy of Thompson-Lengacher and Yoder Funeral Home - Nappanee
Nappanee, Indiana
Apr 24, 1929 – Sep 7, 2020 (Age 91)
Eugene “Gene” Slagle, age 91, formerly of Nappanee, went to be with his savior at 7:44pm on Monday, September 7, 2020. He was born April 24, 1929 in Nappanee, IN to Roy G. Slagle, SR and Merle (Strauss) Slagle. Gene was a 1947 Nappanee High School graduate. Gene was a Korean War Veteran for the United States Army. He was a lifetime area resident. His first marriage was to Janet McFall; they were divorced. His 2nd marriage was to Norma Pfeiffer on November 28, 1985. He had worked at Yoder Ready Mix for 28 years and Fidler’s for 12 years.
Gene had an effervescent personality and was loved by everyone he touched, always bringing a smile to the faces of those around him. He was lighthearted and loved life. He had many friends who lovingly referred to as “Slug”. Well-known in the Wakarusa community and the popular morning coffee crew, Gene was a “key holder” for morning table talk at Cook’s Pizza. He enjoyed food and loved cooking as well as eating. He also enjoyed gardening, bowling, bike riding, and swimming. In the 70’s he was often seen cruising the Goshen strip in his blue Mercury Marquise looking for his children.
Surviving are his wife, Norma Slagle, Goshen; children, Nancy (Mike) Beer, Nappanee, Holly (Dave) Johnson, Ada, MI, Robert Slagle, Wakarusa; step children, Kathleen Patty, Goshen, Barbara (Mike) Cloud, Wakarusa, John W. Pfeiffer, Wakarusa, Jane (Dave) Richmond, Wakarusa; grandchildren, Jacob (Nikki) Beer, Nappanee, Josiah (Tifani) Beer, Etna Green, Jesse (Kaely) Beer, Indianapolis, Jed (Kalie) Beer, Nappanee, Hilary (Steven) Mills, Grand Rapids, MI, Carly (Edward) Rozanski, Greenville, MI, Connor Johnson Ada, MI, Tyler (Fiance’ Ashley) Slagle, Wakarusa, Emily (Brayden) Troxel, Wakarusa; 10 step grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; 15 step great-grandchildren; 5 step great great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a sister, Marilyn Nichols; and brothers, James and Roy Slagle, JR.
Military Graveside services will take place Friday, September 11, 2020 at South Union Cemetery at 11 a.m.
Memorial contributions may be given to Living Gospel Church.
Arrangements are with Thompson-Lengacher & Yoder Funeral Home, Nappanee.
Read MoreI was sorry to hear of Gene's passing. Roger and I love having him in our Bible study groups. He will never run out of pie again. I know he had SO many crowns for our Savior. And he now knows if Adam and Eve have navels!
Annetta Cain Hill
September 11, 2020 | Nappanee, IN | Friend
We loved Gene and will miss him terribly. I have so many memories of time spent with him and they make me smile. God blessed us with Gene and we will see him again. Love you all.
Dacia Reid
September 10, 2020 | Nappanee, IN | Friend
Norma sorry to hear that Gene passed you two made a great couple Your family is in our prayers
Dennis Wogomon
September 09, 2020 | Elkhart, IN | Friend
Your dad was so much fun to hang out with. He cared about everyone he met. Praying for all of you.
Mary Scott (Forrest)
September 09, 2020 | Orlando, FL | Friend
Norma, you and your family are in my prayers. My heart is heavy to find out about Gene's call to home. You both are my family and the best neighbors. You both helped me with open arms through my time as your neighbor. I'm sure there are several fur babies by his feet and that would include my Max. God bless you.
Jama Geiger
September 09, 2020 | Lake Placid, FL | Neighbor
So sorry for your loss. Your dad was a sweet and funny man.
Vickie Hochstetler Hall
September 09, 2020 | Reed City, MI | Acquaintance
Gene was a tremendous supporter of his children and the Reborn Delegation. We will never forget his travelling all over to hear the group sing. What devotion and caring!
Rita and Buzz Elliott
September 09, 2020 | Milford, IN | Friend
I will always remember sly with good memories, at Calvary Baptist Church.
Julie (Wiseman)Myers
September 09, 2020 | Nappanee, IN | Friend
