Gene Budach

Published 12:00 am Monday, February 9, 2009

A celebration of life for Gene Roy Budach of New Richland will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday at the First Congregational Church in New Richland. The Rev. Pamela Jensen and the Rev. Cary Larson will officiate. Visitation will be today from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Friedrich Funeral Home in New Richland.
Gene passed away peacefully with family by his side on Friday, Feb. 6, 2009, at the New Richland Care Center. He blessed the lives of those who loved him for 80 years.
Gene was born on May 1, 1928, in Mankato, to William and Dorthea (Huper) Budach. He attended the country school in Faribault County about a mile from his home and helped on the family farm.
He was united in marriage to Mildred (Melcher) Budach on Nov. 2, 1945, in Webster City, Iowa. Together they farmed and lived in the Minnesota Lake, Mapleton and Ellendale areas. In 1965, he purchased the IH dealership and moved his family to New Richland. He owned and operated Budach Implement and continued farming until his retirement.
Gene was an active member of his community who participated in the Lions Club and many church committees, served as mayor of New Richland, served on the New Richland Development Corporation and was honored as grand marshal of the Farm & City Days Celebration in 2003.
Gene was a “people” person who truly enjoyed his family, friends and just visiting with people, in general. He loved spending time outside at their lake property, going on walks with his dog, Maggie, fishing, tinkering in his garage and yard, riding his “Sputnik” ATV, and visiting over a fresh cup of coffee. His greatest joys were his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Gene leaves to cherish his memory his three children: Irene (Ralph) Krueger of Waseca, Gary (Kris) Budach of New Richland, Lynn (Steve) Hagen of New Richland; and daughter-in-law, Cindy Budach of Owatonna. There are 13 grandchildren: Mike (LeeAnne) Budach, Shari (Corey) Mensink, Jessica (Brett) Richards, Jeremy Krueger and his special friend Christina, Joshua (Tiffany) Krueger, Tanya (Matt) Schlinger, Holly (Ryan) Nissen, Daniel (Kari) Budach, Nicholas (Erin) Budach, Jenny (Joe) Erickson, Stephanie Hagen and special friend Jason, Dustin Hagen and Brandis Hagen and special friend Shawn. Also surviving are his brother, LaVerne (Elaine) Budach, 18 great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Gene was preceded in death by his loving wife of 62 years, Mildred; his parents, William and Dorthea Budach; son David; son-in-law Randy Knutson; and sister Pearl Huettl.
Gene will always hold a special place in our hearts. Blessed be the many fond memories of Dad, Grandpa and Papa.