Gene Edgar Schlesener  passed away on April 4, 2024 at Salina Regional Health Center after his second battle with cancer.

Gene was born on his parents’ farm just South of hope on September 17th 1943. After Gene graduated Hope High School in 1961. He went to work and continued to work on the farm.

He was employed at CE later, known as ABB for 35 years. He then began a career at API in Carlton, all the while farming and providing for his family, retiring at the age of 70.

October of 1963. He was married to Evelyn J. Rickenbrode. They worked farmed and raised their young family until Evelyn’s death in March of 1978.

In August of 1979, Gene was wed to Rhonda Schwartz. They welcomed a son in 1980, but later parted ways in 1991.

For twenty seven years, he was the partner and later husband of Patty (Martin) Schlesener, who preceded him in death in 2023.

Gene  was an avid farmer and loved all things agriculture.  Enjoy tractor polls, drag races and watching cowboy shows.  His greatest joy were her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Gene is preceded in death by his parents Ted and Marie; sisters Lavonn and Virginia; son Timothy; son Doug; wife Evelyn; and wife Patty.

He is survived by his sister Marlene of Minnesota; his children, Brad Schlesener, Justin Schlesener and Kimberly (Richardson) Schlesener. Granddaughters Cassie (Ed Kohman), Mara, Robin, Heidi Lexi, Davanne, and Evelyn. Grandson’s Cody (Rachel) and Dawson and two great grandchildren, Clara and Reed.

The family suggest memorials to Tammy Walker Cancer Center.  A Celebration of Life is scheduled for May 19th from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Hope Annex in Hope, Kansas.