Eugene "Geno" E. Schlecht

Eugene “Geno” E. Schlecht was reunited with the love of his life, Viona (nee Bentz), on October 1, 2024, at the age of 93. He was a proud father to Gregory (Lori), Randal (Mary), and the late Sandra Davis, and an adoring grandpa to Wendy Davis, Jennifer (Martin) Rowe, Lisa Davis, Kristin (Frank) Colorito, Jamie (Kris) Heijnen, Erin (Jacob) DeJarlais, Kaitlin (Kevin) Koch, Megan (Jesse) Sironi, and Michael (Alexandra) Schlecht. Geno was also a dear brother to Darrell (Carol) Schlecht and is remembered fondly by twenty great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was preceded in death by his wife, daughter, sisters, brother, and other dear family and friends.

Born in Fredonia, North Dakota on November 7, 1930, Geno was married to his soulmate Vi for 68 years. The family takes comfort in knowing that he is reunited with Vi to continue their nightly cribbage games. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army. He was awarded the Purple Heart while serving in the Korean War. Geno worked for the Ladish Company for over 40 years. After retiring he worked for Greg's True Value, where he was well-known throughout the Southside community.

His social spirit shone through in his love for gathering with family and friends, whether it was for a drink at Joe's K Ranch or sharing morning conversations with his breakfast club. His commitment to service extended beyond his military career, as he became an active member of several local organizations, including VFW Post 2895, AMVET Post #4, and American Legion Post 16, and was a lifetime member of the Day 19 group. For 36 years, he was a dedicated member of the Ladish Fatman’s Club. Geno was recognized as AMVETS Post #4 2003 Member of the Year and the Cudahy War Memorial 2010 Veteran of the Year. In 2013, Geno had the honor of being a participant on the Honor Flight, a memorable experience that he cherished deeply.

An avid fan of all Wisconsin sports teams, Geno could often be found cheering for his favorites with infectious enthusiasm, planning his days around games and never failing to be able to recount the games for the Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers. As he passed away just before the start of the 2024 playoffs, the Brewers will have an angel in the outfield cheering them on in their quest to make the World Series.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Zablocki VA Hospital, particularly the Hematology Department, for their compassionate care over the past few years. They are especially grateful to the Heroes’ Corner for their exceptional support during Geno’s final days. His legacy of friendship, service, humor, ruthless cribbage, and card playing will forever resonate in the hearts of all who knew him.

A celebration of his life will be held on Friday, October 11th at St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church (3515 E. Van Norman Ave.)  in Cudahy. Visitation will take place from 9:30 -11:00 am, followed by a service at 11 am.

 In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the   Stars and Stripes Honor Flight  . Every day is a bonus.