William Eugene "Gene" Sharp

William Eugene “Gene” Sharp, 84, of Rowena, passed away early Sunday morning, January 3, 2010 in Ballinger Memorial Hospital.

Gene was born June 20, 1925 in Scurry, TX to Roy Cecil and Lois Cecil (Howard) Sharp.
He proudly served his country in WW II by joining the 107th US Navy Sea Bees. He helped to build the runway on Tinian Island, which was used by the B 29’s, Enola Gay and Bock’s Car that carried the A bombs over Japan.

Gene married Shirley Ann Wehlmann on December 19, 1959 in Rowena, celebrating their Golden Anniversary this past month.

He worked as a mechanic for Mueller Supply, retiring after 22 years. He was a member of the Miles Masonic Lodge, the Rowena VFW and the American Legion. He was also a member of the Zoar Community Church of Rowena.

Gene is survived by his wife of fifty years, Shirley Sharp of Rowena; his son, Roy C. Sharp and wife, Norma of Rowena; his daughter, Suzanne Sharp of Ballinger; his grandchildren, Edward Fuentes, Christopher Fuentes, Cody Plumley and Allison Sharp.

His sisters and brothers, Lois Burleson, Floye Sharp, Loye Lockett, Linda Prosise, Joe Sharp, Leon Sharp, and Bobby Sharp also survive.

There will be a time of visitation for family and friends on Monday January 4, 2010 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Lange Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Tuesday, January 5 at 10:30 a.m. at the Zoar Community Church in Rowena with Rev. Art Mavrode officiating. Grandchildren will serve as honorary pallbearers. Burial will follow in the Rowena Protestant Cemetery.