Willard Gene Lutes

Willard Gene Lutes, 81, of Columbia died, October 2, 2008, in Kyle, Texas, in the loving presence of his three daughters and a devoted friend, Deborah Zywot.

Private memorial services are being held at Memorial Park Cemetery with the Reverend Rodney Fowler officiating.

Mr. Lutes was born April 30, 1927, in Fredericktown, to John and Nellie Lutes.

Willard Gene married Lois Marie LaGrand on Dec. 23, 1944, in Fredericktown.

Mr. Lutes worked as a deputy sheriff and chief ambulance driver in Fredericktown and was a lifelong mechanic.

He served his country in the U.S. Army; was a member of Elks, Lyons, Masons and VFW.

His hobbies include fishing, hunting and enjoying time with his family. He was a devoted husband and loving father.

Survivors include three daughters, Pat Columbus of Kyle, Texas, and Connie Bowden and Barbara Lutes of Columbia; eight grandchildren; sisters Norma Tinsley and Maxine Burgard; 12 great-grandchildren; and many relatives and friends.

Mr. Lutes was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 60 years, Lois Marie Lutes; youngest daughter Pamela Martin Belgya; parents John Pinkley and Nellie Mae Lutes; sister Mary Hargiss; brother Charles Lutz; grandson Gary Olges; and granddaughter Molly Bowden.

He never met a stranger and enjoyed life.

Online tributes may be left at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com