Eugene Ellis Engebretsen

Eugene "Gene" Ellis Engebretsen, a proud veteran of the U.S. Navy peacefully passed away April 27th, 2024, in Virginia Beach, VA at the age of 95.
Gene was born to the late Ellis and Viola Engebretsen in Green Bay, WI, February 21st, 1929. After high school, at the age of 17, he enlisted in the Navy where he proudly served for 21 years before retiring and settling in Virginia Beach, VA. After retiring from the Navy, Gene worked many years for the Department of Defense as a planner/estimator. He and his wife, Phyllis, eventually moved to Chesapeake, VA.
Gene is preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Phyllis Collier Engebretsen and his son Brian Futrell both of Chesapeake and his sister, Carol Willems, of De Pere, WI.
Left to cherish his memory, are his son Dale Engebretsen (wife Carol) of Moyock, NC, his daughter Kari Clark of Jacksonville, FL and his daughter Lori Zydzik (husband Harold) of Virginia Beach, VA. HIs granddaughters, Logan, Reagan, Kimberly, Rachael and grandson Craig plus 4 great grandchildren and his brother-in-law, Jerry Collier of Norfolk, VA.
Gene was an avid fisherman and could often be found in the lakes around Virginia and North Carolina with his good friend, Ray Neal. Being a Green Bay native, he was a huge Packers fan, rooting for them every Sunday until the very end. The epitome of kindness, Gene never met a stranger. He loved his family and friends immensely. Always willing to lend a hand, you could catch him walking around to check on his neighbors or taking care of their pets when they were away. He loved all animals. When his wife and son were ill for many years before their deaths, he tirelessly took care of them, without fail, without hesitation. He was a true angel on earth.
Rest in paradise Dad. You will be deeply missed.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date TBD. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to your local SPCA. Please visit www.grahamfuneralhome.com to leave a condolence to the family.