Eugene Bradfield

Lloyd Eugene Bradfield, age 81, of Appleton, WI, passed away Wednesday, February 24, 2016. He was born in Omaha, NE, the son of Lloyd M. and Dagmar (Nelson) Bradfield, and moved to Pine River when he was ten years old. He graduated from Pine River High School in 1953. Gene then started a small dance band which he played in until he entered Bemidji State University in 1959. He graduated from Bemidji in 1962 with a B.A. degree in social studies, then attended the University of North Dakota where he earned his Maters and a Doctorate of Education in 1966. In 1965 he married Kathryn Mae Nusbaum in Pine River. Following his graduation from UND he became a professor of psychology at Bemidji State University until 1979 when he was employed by Ah-Gwah-Ching Nursing Home as a psychologist and eventually as director of psychology. He and his wife retired in 1991 and continued to live in the Backus area. Following a stroke in 1994, the Bradfields wintered in Florida where they eventually built a home and moved to it in 1998. In 2005 they moved to Appleton, WI, where they resided until Gene's death. Although Gene lived in various places during his adulthood, he always considered the Pine River-Backus area as his real home.

Gene enjoyed fishing, ham radio, travel, playing cards, reading and music. He also enjoyed talking to relatives and friends about railroads and railroading. Having lost his sight in his early teens, Gene appreciated the assistance and support given to him by family, friends and particularly by his wife, Katie.

Gene is survived by his wife, Katie; sister, Betty Rittersdorf of Grand Rapids, MI; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Bonnie Rezanka.

A memorial service will be held at 11 AM on Thursday, May 5 at Kline Funeral Home, Pine River. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your favorite charity in Gene's name. Online condolences may be posted by using the guest book tab on this page.