Gene Paul Brunner was born on September 4, 1940, in Montevideo, MN, to Paul and Anna (Hohler) Brunner. He was baptized and confirmed at the Congregational Church in Montevideo and attended school in Granite Falls. After high school, Gene worked for Swift Manufacturing in Montevideo and worked for a local farmer. On December 19, 1964, Gene and Sharon Stokke were united in marriage at the Assembly of God Church in Clarkfield. Gene began his farming operation with his brother Phil and family. He and Phil worked together until Gene's retirement from farming in 2005.

Gene enjoyed fishing, camping, and spending time on the water in his boat. Gene and Sharon enjoyed many vacations together to Branson, Mexico, Alaska, and on cruises. Gene also enjoyed trips to Las Vegas with friends. He loved spending time ice fishing on Lac Qui Parle along with a few good card games in the icehouse.  Gene was known for his easy-going nature, always having a smile, kindness, willingness to help others, and his selflessness. Gene was an animal lover, his favorite was his yellow lab, Sam.

On Sunday, May 5, 2024, at the age of 83. Gene was called to his heavenly home. He was surrounded by his family and friends at the Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls. Gene is survived by his wife of 59 years, Sharon; his brother, Phillip (Joyce) Brunner of Waconia, MN, Jon (Marcia) Brunner of Washington, Mike (Kathy) Brunner of Glenwood, MN, brother-in-law Robert Williamson of Aurora, CO, sister-in-law, Donna Stokke of Edina, MN, nieces and nephews, Faye (Jim) Koepke, Julie (Bill)  Bunch, Beth (John) Wacholz, Kim (Missy) Sell, Scott (Vicki) Sell, Rob Williamson, Chris (Kristen) Williamson. He is also survived by special friends the Aeikens family, several great-nieces, great nephews, and many other family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Anna Brunner; sisters, Karen Sell and Sharon Williamson; Parents-in-law, Bernard and Helma Stokke, sister-in-law, Beulah (Earl) Lindquist, and brother-in-law, Duane Stokke.

Visitation will be on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at 10 AM at Hope Reformed Church in Montevideo, followed by the funeral service officiated by Pastor Mike Altena at 11 AM. Interment following the service will be in the Clarkfield City Cemetery.