Gene Leon Theleman

It is with very heavy hearts that we share the loss of Gene Leon Theleman. Our Lord called him home on April 21, 2023, doing what he loved.

Born to Fred and Leona Theleman of Natoma, on August 29, 1955, in Hays, Kansas, Gene remained a resident of Natoma throughout his life. He attended and graduated from Natoma High School in 1973. Gene met his wife Luanne in Hays, Kansas, and soon married in 1976. They were blessed with three boys in 1984, 1987, and 1989. Gene was a believer in Christ and joined the Catholic Church.

Gene began farming at the young age of fourteen and continued in his profession for fifty-three years until his untimely death. Gene and Luanne, in conjunction with their sons, founded Triple T Trenching in 2001 to help their sons earn their way through college.

Deeply involved in his community, Gene was a prior school board and Lion’s Club member and a deputy of Natoma (Who would have thought it?). Gene was a friend to many and a neighbor to all.

Gene was often a man of few words. Yet, he made a lasting impact on this world. One would be hard-pressed to find a man who better embodies the words: determined, self-taught, self-made, and reliable. Gene also defined what a hard-working man truly was and drew admiration from all who knew him. He was headstrong but also very loving. At family gatherings, he was often seen with one of his five grandchildren in his arms, tickling, smiling, and exhibiting the tender warmth of a loving grandfather. Most importantly, he built a beautiful family he cared for deeply and protected fervently. His impact will last beyond his years on earth in the form of his three amazing sons, who have learned from his example what it means to be a good man, husband, and father.

He is survived by his wife, Luanne, of 46 years; son Brian and granddaughter Cassidy; son Clayton and daughter-in-law Melissa Noel; grandchildren Noah and Ava; son Justin and daughter-in-law Melissa Elise; grandchildren Colette and Preston; sister Susie and husband John Price, and brothers Larry and Darrell.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister Lois; and brother-in-law Duan Talley.

Please join us in celebrating the life of Gene Theleman at 10:00 a.m., April 27, 2023, at the Funeral Mass at Sacred Heart Plainville Church. Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., April 26th at Plumer-Overlease Funeral Home in Plainville and 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the church with a Vigil and Rosary Service at 6:00 p.m. Natoma Cemetery has been chosen for his final resting place.

Donations can be directed to the “In the Trenches” memorial fund if desired. The funds will be used to serve community members best, and organizations in need. You may use the Venmo QR link found on the Tribute Wall page.