Edwin Eugene Slaney

Edwin Eugene "Gene" Slaney, age 89, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 13, 2025, at Schmitt Woodland Hills, surrounded by loving family and compassionate staff.

Gene was born on July 18, 1936, in Richland Center, Wisconsin, to the late Edwin and Agnes Slaney. Gene, the oldest of seven, grew up on a farm on Melancthon creek where he later built a house on the same property that he grew up on. He graduated from Richland Center High School.

On April 28th, 1958, Gene married Marilyn Sandmire and had four daughters: Sandra (Alan) Matteson, Cindy Feltman, Sue (Jim) Hulberg, and Sally (Scott) Gald. After their divorce, Gene found love again with Kathy Keller. They shared nearly forty wonderful years together before Kathy's tragic passing in a car accident. Gene and Kathy both worked for Kraemer & Sons, for many years, traveling for work, fishing along the Mississippi with friends, hosting an annual deer hunt for family and friends to enjoy.

After retiring, Gene embraced a quieter rhythm-visiting his mother often, making maple syrup, and savoring the simple pleasures of life. Though not a man of many words, Gene's love for his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends ran deep.

Gene spent his final years at Schmitt Woodland Hills, where he was deeply loved and cared for. His family is forever grateful for the kindness and devotion shown to him there.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Kathy Slaney; his siblings Doc, Robert, and Mary Ann Scott. He is survived by his children; his brothers John "Jake" and Joe (Eunice Ann); his sister Eldora; his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great great grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and cherished friends.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at 11:00 AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Richland Center, with burial to follow at St. Patrick's Catholic Cemetery in Melancthon Creek. Visitation will take place at St. Mary's on the same day from 9:30 AM until the time of service. The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Schmitt Woodland Hills, in honor of the compassionate care Gene received during his final years.