Gene Heins

Gene C. Heins, 85, of Platteville died on Tuesday, September 5, 2017 at Gray's Nursing Home, Platteville.  Funeral services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 9, 2017 at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville. Rev. Jeff Pedersen will officiate.  Burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, Platteville.  Friends may call from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the services at the Melby Funeral Home & Crematory, Platteville.  Memorials may be made to the Gene C. Heins Memorial Fund. Online condolences can be made at www.melbyfh.com

Eugene “Gene” was born on January 1, 1932 in Platteville, Wisconsin, son of Elmer and Jennie (Butson) Heins.  He was united in marriage to Judith Irene Ruskell on January 11, 1958 in Belmont, Wisconsin.  Gene graduated from Platteville High School.  He worked at John Deere Dubuque Works for 32 years retiring in 1992.  At the time of his retirement he was working in the Experimental Department.  He enjoyed collecting antique toy tractors and was an avid motorcycle rider for 60 years.  Gene always enjoyed socializing and telling a good joke.  Gene especially loved to follow and be involved with his grandchildren's activities.  

Gene is survived by his son, Jerry “Hondo” (Pam) Heins of Platteville; son-in-law, Tim Hawkinson of Green Bay; five grandchildren, Derek Heins, Shawna (Jake) Spielbauer, Krista (Mitchell) LaPierre, Laura (Bradley) Beavers, Deena (Ron) Tracy; five great-grandchildren; Riley, Judah, Olive, Waverly and Madison; one sister, Virginia Dimick of Platteville; and special friend, Maude Dailey.  He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy, parents, and daughter, Jill Hawkinson in 2014.