Eugene Coles

Eugene "Gene" Coles, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 9, 2025, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 97. Born on November 3, 1927, in Everett, Washington, Gene was the son of Edwin and Nonie Coles. Raised in the small town of Willamina, Oregon, Gene excelled in both academics and athletics, serving as Student Body President and playing football during his school years.

Gene married Hilma, on July 9, 1946. Together, they raised two daughters, Bettie and Brenda. In the 1950s, Gene began a successful career as a butcher, opening his own butcher shop called Gene’s Meat Market. He ran the business with pride until he sold it in 1988 but continued to work there for many years after.

Gene’s dedication to his community was evident in the many roles he took on throughout his life. He was an active elder at Mehama Community Church and served on the fire, water, and telephone boards, helping to improve the quality of life for his neighbors. A founding member of the Santiam Sportsmen’s Club, Gene was also honored for his service with the fire department, where he demonstrated his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of his community.

In addition to his many community contributions, Gene was an avid outdoorsman. He loved elk hunting, fishing for halibut and salmon in Alaska, and even learned to snowboard at the age of 70. As a pilot, Gene owned a Cessna 182 airplane, and he enjoyed flying to Washington for clam digging trips and to Reno. Gene was also a talented roller skater and loved teaching his daughters how to roller skate.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Hilma, and his step-brother Jack Glander (Lucille). He is survived by his loving wife of 10 years, Jeanie; his daughters Bettie Hedrick (David) and Brenda Henn (Fred); his grandchildren Eric, Kimberly, Fritz, and Eugene; his 12 great-grandchildren; and his step-grandchildren Sharon Erwin and Michael Hedrick.

Gene’s legacy of service, love for his family, and passion for adventure will be forever remembered by all who knew him. Memorial contributions can be made to Mehama Community Church and a service at the church is pending.