Eugene "Gene" Travis

Eugene “Gene” Dale Travis, a beloved brother, uncle, and friend, was born on November 21, 1977, to Jessie A. and Roberta J. (Brock) Travis in Fairfax, Missouri. Gene grew up in Craig, Missouri, where he attended Craig R-III Public Schools. He earned his certified welding degree before graduating with the Class of 1997. Gene was known for his dedication, determination, and the love he had for his family and friends.

Gene moved to the Harlan, IA area late in his 20’s to work and live closer to his brothers Marvin and Danny. He was employed as a shop mechanic at Panama Transfer for nearly 20 years, where his work ethic and attention to detail made him a trusted member of the team. Gene found his greatest joy in simple, meaningful moments spent with his family.

His love for the outdoors was evident from his farmer’s tan and his dislike of air conditioning. Gene enjoyed raising and tending to his chickens, relaxing at Big Lake, spending quality time and helping his brothers with projects. Though Gene’s personalized license plate and name tag on his work uniform said “Mean,” his personality and soft heart didn’t match the title. His willingness to lend a hand made him a cherished companion to all who knew him.

Gene passed away on Thursday, November 28, 2024, at Azria Rose Vista Nursing Home in Woodbine, IA, at the age of 47, following a courageous battle with recurrent cancer. He was surrounded by love and compassion in his final days under the tender care of Hillcrest Hospice.

Gene’s family was at the center of his heart. He shared an especially close bond with his brothers and treasured his nieces and nephews. His legacy of love, laughter, and hard work will be carried on by his three brothers: Danny (Prudy Kloewer) Travis of Harlan; Dennis (Connie) Travis of Tarkio, Missouri and Marvin (Leanne) Travis of Harlan; his nieces and nephews, Justin Travis (Kelci Judas), Josh (Julie) Travis, Danielle Travis (Austin Ede), Tabitha (Johnny) Eaton, Samantha (Zach) Jenkins, Courtney (Nathan) Hensley, Brock (Rachel) Travis, and Kyle (Sophia) Travis; 9 great-nephews and 3 great-nieces; dedicated and loving girlfriend Sara Jensen, and numerous friends and co-workers who will forever remember him with affection.

Visitation with family greeting friends will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, with a Prayer Service to begin at 6:30 p.m., all at Heartland Funeral Home, 1401 Garfield Ave, Harlan. A private burial will be held in the Forbes Cemetery near Oregon, Missouri. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., at Chamberlain Funeral Home, 1705 Ridge Dr., Mound City, MO 64470.