Eugene V. McCulloch

FORSYTH - Born in Brockway, Mont., on Sept. 12, 1912, Eugene Victor McCulloch began life as the son of Charles and Margaret McCulloch. A proud native of the high plains of Eastern Montana, Gene would see many places during his life, but he would return always to "God's country." He died on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2004, in Forsyth.

Gene learned the love of family as he grew up on a ranch near Circle with his brothers, Hubert, Cecil, and James; and his sisters, Marie and "kid sister," Joyce. The tragic loss of brothers Hubert and Cecil instilled in Gene a belief that every minute with family and friends was important.

The Great Depression took Eugene to the Pacific coast, where he worked and traveled through the states of Oregon and California. He delighted in relaying stories of his experiences with his Uncle Harry, a bootlegger of enthusiastic character. World War II sent Gene to the European Theatre, where he served in North Africa. His brother Jimmy and he would go on to participate in the Pacific Theatre of Operations in the Philippine Islands.

Eugene met Corrine Swenson after his return to Circle. He was introduced to his future companion and cherished life partner at Brockway Dairy Day. Their marriage in 1952 began a family that would produce a son, Scott, and a daughter, Dawn. His children grew to adulthood with an appreciation for the gentle good humor their father possessed. The births of Gene's grandchildren, Chettie, Katie, Heather, Margaret, Seamus, Emily, and Merridy brought joy and contentment into his life.

Retirement from the Rosebud Community Hospital gave Gene the opportunity to pursue his passions. Reading dominated much of his time. Visitors found books scattered throughout the house. Political discussions with friends over coffee at the Speedway Diner became part of a daily routine. As his children started their families, Gene enjoyed explaining his political philosophies to his son-in-law, Dean Preble, and his daughter-in-law, Ann.

Eugene McCulloch's journey to the head of the creek ended peacefully in his sleep. He is survived by his wife, Corrine, and daughter, Dawn Preble, of Forsyth; his sister, Joyce Harms and his sister-in-law, Verna McCulloch of Billings; his son and daughter-in-law, Scott and Ann of Billings; his grandchildren, Chettie, Katie, Heather, Margaret, Seamus, Emily; and Merridy; and a myriad of nieces and nephews.

Services for him will be 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27, at the Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home. Burial will be in the family lot of the Forsyth Cemetery. Visitation will be on Monday, Jan. 26, from 1 until 6 p.m. in the chapel of Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home in Forsyth. Memorials can be made to a charity of your choice.

Condolences can be sent to the McCulloch family at www.stevensonandson.com.

Stevenson & Sons Funeral Home of Forsyth is in charge of the arrangements.