Eugene "Geno" Haines

Eugene "Geno" Thomas Haines - our beloved father, grandfather, son, brother, friend, and veteran - passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Monday, November 24, 2025.

Eugene was born on May 31, 1948, to Russel and Gertrude (Wester) Haines. He was the oldest of four boys - including Jim, Gary, and Kevin. A lifelong resident of Sturgeon Bay and proud "Mainlander" (West Sider), he often joked that residents of the East Side were "Islanders". As a little boy he was a proud Boy Scout with his mom being a den leader. He attended Corpus Christi Catholic School and was a graduate of Sturgeon Bay High School Class of 1966.

Geno was rightfully proud of his military service, having served in the 501st Armored Field Artillery Battalion and was part of the 1st Armored Division in Germany. He later served as a member of the Nike Hercules surface to air nuclear missile crew, where he got his beginnings in nuclear security. He went on to work at the Kewaunee Nuclear Power Plant - proudly serving as an armed security officer for over 30 years.

Eugene was married to Mary Jo Rasmusson on August 23, 1975 in Sturgeon Bay. They had 3 children together and shared 20 years of marriage.

Eugene will be most remembered for his endlessly positive attitude and generous spirit. He donated to individuals and charities alike - wherever he felt he could help. He was quick to help those in need and never sought recognition, many times doing these selfless acts anonymously.

Eugene was a lifelong car and motorcycle restoration enthusiast. He loved working on projects, often undertaking many simultaneously. He was most proud of his 1970 Ford Mustang Fastback that he owned for over 50 years. He restored it multiple times and drag raced it at Wisconsin International Raceway back in the day. He was a fixture at local car shows where he would cheerfully share his passions with friends and strangers alike, regularly taking home a trophy or two in recognition of his skill. He could talk about cars and parts with people for hours on end. He always said he loved anything with wheels.

He regularly spent his mornings sipping coffee on his porch, enjoying the quiet spot in his backyard while listening to and watching nature. He often listened to the birds chirp and loved to identify the different species of birds by their sound. He also loved to feed the backyard critters that he endearingly called "vermin". Dogs held a special place in Eugene's heart - he loved to spoil family pets with treats and affection. He loved his simple life.

Eugene is survived by his daughter Miranda (John-Eric) Andersson, sons Matthew (Jamie) Haines, Mark (Michelle) Haines, and four grandchildren; Chloe, Nolan, Norah, and Hartley. He is also survived by his brothers Jim Haines and Kevin (Melissa) Haines, and nieces and nephews. Eugene was preceded in death by his brother Gary, his father Russel and his mother Gertrude. He loved his family more than any "thing" in this world.

Family and friends are invited to join us in remembering Eugene at Forbes Funeral Home on Friday, November 28, from 4-7 pm. Funeral services with military honors will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church on Saturday, November 29, at 11 am.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to one of Geno's favorite charities including The Salvation Army, Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, and Door CANcer. A very special thank you to the VA and also to Green Bay Oncology including Dr. Jaslowski, Eric, Brittany and the many nurses and staff for their care through the years.