Eugene John Leone, age 75, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2024, at Mountain View VA Medical Center in Sheridan, Wyoming. Gene was born in Detroit, Michigan on September 14, 1948, to Eugene and Betty (Konecny) Leone. A short time after his birth, the family moved across the country to Southern California, where he grew up in Orange County. Shortly after graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving two tours in Vietnam. Upon leaving the Army, he attended Orange Coast College and later transferred to Long Beach State University where he earned his bachelor's degree in Earth Science. Shortly after graduating with a Master's in Geology, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. It was here he obtained the rank of Captain while serving as an intelligence specialist, serving his country for nine more years before retiring.
When Gene moved to Worland, he went to work for the Bureau of Land Management. When he retired from the BLM he embarked on his favorite job as a substitute teacher and teacher's aide for Washakie County School District #1.
Although he never married, Gene adopted many close friends as "family". He was always there to lend a hand or an encouraging word to those he cared for. Gene possessed many talents and skill sets, one of which was a ham radio operator. In his younger years he had a passion for rodeo, especially bronc riding. Throughout his life, his overriding passion was showing his love for God and his Savior, Jesus the Christ.
Gene was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Richard Leone and Mark Alexander Leone; and sister, Teresa Diane Leone.
He is survived by his sisters, Corrine Leone of Colorado Springs, Colorado, and Catherine (Frank) Tiley of Sun Valley, California and numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Graveside services will be held 3:00 PM, Friday, March 15, 2024 at the Riverview Memorial Garden Cemetery in Worland, Wyoming. Visitation for family and friends will be held 1:30 PM at the Bryant Funeral Home Chapel. Military Honors will be provided by the U.S. Navy, American Legion Post #44 and the Patriot Guard Riders. Memorial donations may be made in honor of Gene to the Worland Humane Society and sent to PO Box 524, Worland, WY 82401. Online condolences may be made at http://www.bryantfuneralhomeonline.com.