Gene Anttila

On Friday, May 31, 2023, Gene George Anttila, loving husband, brother, uncle, bonus father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend passed away at age 86. Gene was born on a very cold January 4, 1937 in the sauna on the Anttila Farm in Menahga, Minnesota to Helen and George. He was the first-born son of the Anttila’s two sons. After graduating high school, he joined the Air Force serving in both the Korean and Vietnam wars. Returning home, he had a short break in Service and eventually joined the Army National Guard for a total of 30 years of Service to our Nation. Gene honored Service Members with a career at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. At that time, he married Phyliss and raised his bonus-son Eddie. Gene a widower, remarried his dying love Myra and they spent almost two decades together.

Gene, a good Finlander, had a passion for family, fishing, hunting, and friends. A perfect day in Gene’s life was spending time with those he loved and talking. As an uncle, bonus father, and grandfather he positively influenced the lives of so many members around the country who carry his legacy in their good works.

Gene was preceded in death by his father, George and his mother, Helen, and first wife Phyliss. To honor Gene’s wishes, on 12 June at 11:00 am there will be grave-side funeral service at Wolf Lake Cemetery with a follow-on lunch at the Menahga VFW.

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