Gene Lawrence Avery

Gene Lawrence Avery was born July 18, 1925, in Dowagiac; he was one of four children born to Bert and Lela (Van Auken) Avery. Gene peacefully went to be with his Lord, on Saturday, May 12, 2018, at Maple Lake Assisted Living in Paw Paw.

The family will welcome friends from 2-4 p.m. Sunday, May 20, 2018, at the Hartford Federated Church, followed by a celebration of life service to honor Gene's memory. Chaplain Larry Avery will officiate. As to his wishes, cremation will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church or to the donor's choice. The Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford is helping the family with arrangements. Memorial condolences for the family can be left at http://www.calvin-leonardfh.com.

Gene was a graduate of Lawton High School and was employed by the Michigan Department of Transportation for many years until his retirement. He then worked at Kellogg's Hardware in Hartford for a number of years and helped at the Calvin Funeral Home in Hartford for a short period of time. He was a member of the Hartford Federated Church for over 50 years. Gene loved his family dearly and will be truly missed by all who knew him.

On July 19, 1946, Gene was united in marriage to Donna Garrod, and together they raised their two children, Larry (Carol) Avery of Anderson, Ind., and Maxine (Gary) Carlson of Hartford. He also leaves behind four grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, other family members and friends.

His wife Donna passed away on Aug. 9, 2016. Gene was also preceded in passing by his parents; a sister, Helen Fuller; and two brothers, George and Wayne Avery.

The family would like to send special thanks to Maple Lakes Assisted Living and Great Lakes Hospice for the great care given.