Eugene Gene Frank Polk was born on November 11th, 1917 in Weimar Texas. Gene came to Richland Washington in 1944 and was assigned to the Military Police detachment at Camp Hanford as a guard at the Horn Rapids Internment Camp. He received a letter from the Secretary of Defense commending him for his performance in helping to end the War. In 1946 he married the love of his life and wife of 64 years, Elizabeth Thompson Polk. Together they had 4 children. After the war he began working at Hanford for General Electric, and he retired from Rockwell Hanford in February 1983. Gene was an avid hunter, fisherman, and gardener and he enjoyed horseback riding for many years. He was a member of Christ the King parish since the first church was built and was an usher for over 30 years. He was also a 25-year volunteer with the Richland Food bank until 2008.

Gene took great pride in his family and their accomplishments. He was above all a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He always took the time to be with his family whenever possible. He led by example to demonstrate kindness and consideration, often volunteering to care for ill neighbors and members of the parish.

He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth and their children, Gary, Ron, Karen Brockman and Sharon Paine. Gene and Betty's grandchildren include Amanda, Michael, Carissa, Nichol, Andria, Samantha, Joshua, Jason, Kristoffer, Jordan, Jared, Andrea, Mark, Jeremiah, Cody and Alec in addition to their 18 great grandchildren.

He died peacefully in his sleep on Sunday November 7th surrounded by his family. A rosary will be held at Einans Funeral Home on Wednesday, Nov. 10 at 6:00PM. The funeral will be held at Christ the King Church at 10:00AM on Thursday, Nov. 11 followed by a graveside service, and a reception at noon in the Knights of Columbus Hall.