Gene L. Rice

Gene L. Rice, 93 of Wanatah, Indiana, passed away on Friday, Nov. 21, 2025.

He was born on the Rice family farm on May 13, 1932. He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Rodney Elliott; brothers, Wayne Rice and Earl Rice; his sister, Bonnie Christoph; and his grandson, Michael Rice. He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Kathryn; along with their children, Julie Elliott (Perry) Nigh, Scott (Marianne) Rice and Dana (Lisa) Rice; 10 grandchildren; 32 great-grandchildren; and 1 great-great-grandchild due in December.

Gene was a U.S. Army veteran serving from 1953-1955 and spending several months in Korea.

Gene was a lifetime farmer on the Rice Family Farm, which was purchased by his grandfather in 1917. He did his part to advance the legacy that continues today.

His great passion was the Lions Club International of which he was a member of the Wanatah club for at least 65 years. He served in every office from local to district level and was elected to a two year term on the International Board of Directors serving from 1975-1977. It was through this opportunity that he and Kathryn traveled to many countries around the world. Their love for international travel stayed with them throughout life as they visited nearly 60 countries. Gene was also instrumental in developing the Lions eyeglass mission program, which continues to send missions every year to help needy people.

Gene was known through the area as the "wedding singer." He sang at hundreds of weddings and funerals spanning six decades.

A special thank you to the staff of Pines Village in Valparaiso for their love and compassion for Gene. Special thanks also to Dunes Hospice for their compassionate care. And a very special thank you to his caregiver, Ms. Sharon Malama, for the incredible love and care she gave Gene during these past 11 months.

A visitation will be held Saturday, Nov. 29, from 10 a.m. – 12 noon at Salem Church, 302 S. Main St., Wanatah, with a Lions Club service beginning at 12 noon and funeral service to follow. Luncheon will follow at the church with private family burial at Faith United Methodist Cemetery, 1550 S. 900 W., Wanatah.

In lieu of flowers donations to the Wanatah Lions Club or Salem Church would be appreciated. Please bring your used eyeglasses to the church for donation in honor of Gene.