Eugene Wathen

Eugene Edward Wathen was born July 4, 1946 in La Junta, Colorado to Irene and Walter Wathen. He passed away on April 9, 2011 after a valiant battle with cancer. Gene was an amazing human being and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Gene grew up in Fort Collins, Colorado and graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1967. Shortly after graduation Gene joined the Army and did one tour of duty in Vietnam. He received several medals and commendations while serving his country. After his time in the Army, Gene worked for Ideal Cement and then started his own tile company. Gene is survived by his wife, Lani Lee of 30 years, his daughter, Erin of Texas, and a brother, Steve of Fort Collins, Colorado. Gene loved the outdoors, boating, camping, and was a master diver. He loved to travel, loved meeting new people and was an instant friend to all. Gene was a generous, kind and loving man. Gene loved his music and enjoyed listening to his music at full volume. He spent quite a bit of time in Costa Rica, where he and his wife, Lani had a retirement home. Gene was a free spirit and lived life to the fullest and will be remembered for his spirit of adventure. Gene, we love you and miss you, and we wish you a wonderful new journey! There will be a celebration of his life on Sunday, April 17th at the VFW at 603 Lesser Drive in Fort Collins from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.