Eugene Arnold Heise was born on July 9, 1932 on the farm home in LaMoure County, ND to Edward and Laura (Kraemer) Heise.  He went through the younger grades at rural school and graduated from Litchville High School.  In 1953, he began his military career with the US Army.  He served with the First Calvary in Japan and was honorably discharged in 1955.

From 1956-1962, he worked construction building houses.  In 1962, he took a job with the US Fish and Wildlife working at the US Fish Hatchery until retiring in 1995.  For 26 years, he was a partner in Hi-Liner Handymen.

On May 15, 1957 Gene married Yvonne Wegner and they had two sons, Daryl and Dennis.

On October 7, 1981, Gene married the love of his life Arlene Barstad.  In their 39 years of marriage they enjoyed raising their children together, going dancing, doing some traveling, playing cards and spending time with their Fish Hatchery family who were especially important to Gene.

Gene was a life member of the VFW, AmVets, and Cooties.  He belonged to the Eagles and American Legion.  He was a member of the Color Guard for 47 years.

Gene was easy going and got along with everyone, he was generous to others and often involved in volunteer work. He also was a skilled finish carpenter and built some beautiful gifts for his family. Gene enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was an avid reader and was quick to converse about any topic, and his sense of humor with a slice of clever sarcasm was enjoyed by all. He will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his wife, Arlene; sons, Daryl (Becky) Heise and Dennis Heise; step children, Belinda (Mark) Moser, Jeff (Shellee) Sauer, and Dean (Dixie) Sauer; grandchildren, Sarah Heise, Michelle (Jeremy) Zaun, Curtis Johnson, Brandyn (Kim) Sauer, Jennifer (Will) Hehn; 36 great grandchildren and 21 great-great grandchildren; brothers, Curtis (Emma Mae), Harvey (Rosemary) and Willis; sister, Loretta Olafson; and many nieces and nephews.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Lloyd

Gene passed away at his home in Cooperstown, ND on November 19, 2020 and was surrounded by family during the last days.  We will have visitation for the public on Tuesday, December 1st from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Lerud Mathias Funeral Home.  A prayer service will begin there at 7:00.  A private family only funeral will be held on Wednesday, December 2nd at 10:00 AM.  The prayer service and funeral service will be live streamed and archived along with Gene’s obituary at www.lerudschuldt.com  Please be mindful of the COVID 19 regulations.  Masks are required at the funeral home and church.