Gene Tanner

Gene Ray Tanner, 75, of Kahoka, Missouri, passed away on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, after a 5 day stay at the Clark County Nursing Home, in Kahoka, Missouri with his family by his side.

Gene was born on October 16, 1949, in Keokuk, Iowa to George Junior and Lois Faye (Brewer) Tanner. Gene graduated from Clark County High School in 1968. He enlisted in the United States Navy February 1969 and earned a National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal and Meritorious Unit Commendation for Service on Board USS Mars AFS-1 Ship. He was an honorable discharge in February 1975. After his 6 years of service in the Navy, Gene became a successful heavy equipment operator, working in Missouri, Iowa, Texas, California and Nevada where he had the privilege of operating the world’s largest bulldozer. As of 3 weeks ago, Gene was driving a bulldozer for Matt Nixon with M. Nixon Excavating. Matt and Gene worked side by side, sharing knowledge and opinions. They were truly the best of buds. Gene enjoyed watching horse races, his cup of coffee in the morning, and being home. He was a simple man that loved his family as much as they loved him. He truly will be missed as he touched many lives.

Gene is survived by his sisters: Patricia (Bill) Gastorf of Cantrall, IL, Judy (Keith) Wheeler of Canton, MO, a brother-in-law: Bobby Plenge of Luray, MO, his aunts: Bonnie Brewer of Kahoka, MO, Ozelma Shoup of Kahoka, MO, special cousins: Tina Nixon, Tonya Brewer and Terri Williams, nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents: George Junior and Lois Faye (Brewer) Tanner, his grandparents: Ferdinand and Nora Tanner, Clarence and Lela Brewer, Ray and Faye Brewer, his brothers: Stanton Tanner in infancy, Gary Tanner, his sisters: Linda Kay Plenge, Joan (Rex) Roller, Uncles and Aunts: Eddie Brewer, Albert Brewer, Charlie Shoup, Lowell and Marguerite Tanner, and Robert and Gladys Wallingford, special cousin: Teresa (Brewer) Carter.

According to his wishes, cremation rites have been accorded. There will be no visitation or funeral service. Memorial contributions can be made to The American Legion Post 192 and can be left or mailed to Wilson & Triplett Funeral Home, 975 East Main St, Kahoka, MO 63445. You are invited to share your memories of Gene and leave a condolence at www.wilsontriplett.com