Eugene "Gene" Joseph Vanden Boomen, 85, Green Bay, passed away peacefully on Thursday September 14, 2023. He was born November 27, 1937, in Green Bay to Anton and Caroline (Babiash) Vanden Boomen.

Gene was the youngest of 8 children. He graduated from West High School, class of 1956. Gene excelled in sports, especially softball, football, and hockey. He played for the Green Bay Bobcats, and coached hockey for many years. He worked for the City of Green Bay for many years, starting as a garbage man, and retiring as a superintendent of the department of public works. Gene loved his job and all the great people he met along the way.

At age 13, he met Anne Whitney, and the two later married on November 28th, 1959.  They loved to travel together; however, Anne's time was cut short due to colon cancer, and she passed away in 2000. He then met Kathy Zich, and the two shared the last 20 years together.

Gene loved working with his hands. He could fix anything and was a great teacher. His ultimate goal in life was to help people. He was always right there whenever someone needed any help.

In retirement, he enjoyed spending summers with his grandsons. They would hop in the truck, and he would take them all over town. He enjoyed many weekends up at the cottage, where he was usually found teaching the boys hard work.

Gene leaves behind one son, Jon (Jean) Vanden Boomen; grandchildren, Jon (Miranda) Vanden Boomen, Luke (Kathryn) Vanden Boomen, Kristi Vanden Boomen; great-grandchildren, Calia and Alexi. He is further survived by his significant other, Kathy Zich, and her family, many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne; parents, his seven older siblings, his parents-in-law, Francis and Ophelia Whitney; and sister-in-law, Sue Whitney.

Friends and family will gather at St. Willebrord Catholic Church, 209 S. Adams St., from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 20; Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 10:30 a.m. with Fr. Jack McCarthy officiating. Burial will be in Allouez Catholic Cemetery. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.

Gene's family wishes to extend a thank you to Grancare, St. Vincent's Hospital and Unity Hospice. A very special thank you to Kathy for her extensive care these last few years.