Eugene Herman Fassbender

Eugene Herman Fassbender, 92, of Appleton, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 3rd, surrounded by loving family.

Gene was born to Marie and Herbert Fassbender on December 6th, 1930, in Kaukauna. He graduated from Kaukauna High School in 1948, after which he enlisted in the US Army. After his service Gene enrolled at the University of Wisconsin Steven’s Point, which he graduated from in 1959 with a Bachelor’s of Science. Gene met Sharon while they were students, and he asked her on two dates at once. Luckily the first date went well enough that they still went on the second. They were married in 1959.

Gene worked as a teacher for several years, before moving into the grocery business. At their peak Gene and his business partners ran as many as 4 Doering Supervalu stores in the Appleton-Kaukauna area.

Gene was an artist, a woodcarver, with a love of nature and a particular interest in birds. His carvings were highly detailed and often photorealistic. After they were carved, his wife Sharon would paint them. Together they created many wonderful works of art, and while birds were their primary subject, they also made several carousel horses and a 7ft tall giraffe.

Gene was a lifelong learner, and always curious. He took classes on new art techniques, read stacks and stacks of history books, and wasn’t afraid to ask questions when he wanted to know more. Gene and Sharon were world travelers, and they visited some 30 countries together over the years. Gene also had a great appreciation for food. He was always happy with a full plate in front of him, and he remembered just about every meal he ever ate. Gene was a good man, who brought joy to the lives of everyone around him.

Gene is survived by his wife Sharon; children Paul Fassbender (fiancé Kelly Clement), Jeanne Stein (husband Kevin), and Sarah Fellerer (husband Todd); and grandchildren Sam and Casey Fellerer; Tyler, Shelbi, and Tatum Stein, and Quincy Fassbender.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Marie Fassbender, as well as his younger sister, Karen Miller.

Funeral services will be held at 2pm, Friday, November 10th, at Touchmark on West Prospect (2601 Touchmark Dr., Appleton, WI 54914). In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Heckrodt Wetland Preserve in Menasha.