Eugene "Gene" Frederick Petska, 77, Green Bay, Wisconsin, passed away Saturday, July 19, 2025. He was born October 24, 1947, in Manitowoc to Eugene and Viola (Shimon) Petska.

Gene first saw Bonnie Martin dancing at the Circle Tap and fell in love with her. They were married on Oct. 4, 1969. Together they enjoyed going to basketball games, golfing, and taking trips to the casino. They loved to dance, especially to polka. Bonnie preceded Gene in death on April 24, 2009. Gene was a lifelong sports fan. He enjoyed all sports but held a deep appreciation for high school and collegiate basketball and volleyball. Gene enjoyed running and ran the Bellin for over 25 years. He was a dedicated member of the UWGB men's and women's booster clubs, where he would help on the UWGB golf outing. Gene was an active member of the Knights of Columbus council #6279 and longtime member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. He was always on the go and was always headed to some sort of event. Gene was kind and loving to friends, family, and strangers. He was known as "Papa Gene" to the neighborhood children. His incredibly caring personality will forever be cherished by anyone who crossed his path. Above all else, he loved spending time with his grandson, Kaden and attending his sporting events.

He is survived by his children, Craig (Jen) Petska, Amy (Mike) Vander Kelen; grandson, Kaden Vander Kelen; sisters, Gloria Samz, Bev (Bernie) Nowicki; sister-in-law, Joanne Seppala; nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his wife, Bonnie; parents, Eugene Sr. and Viola; in-laws, Joe and Marguerite Martin; sisters-in-law, Marge (Howard) Weackler, Delores (Erv) Anderson; brothers-in-law, Donald Samz, Robert (Joanna) Martin, Dave Seppala.

Friends and family will gather at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 2597 Glendale Ave., (The entrance is directly across from BP gas station on Glendale Ave.) from 10am to 1pm on Friday, July 25; Mass to follow at 1pm. To send online condolences, please go to www.BlaneyFuneralHome.com.