Eugene Lelonek

Eugene "Bud" Lelonek, age 88, of Brainerd, passed away at his home on Sunday, March 25. A private family service will be held, at a later date.

Bud was born on May 6, 1923, to Clarence and Gladys (Connell) Lelonek, in Altoona, WI. At a young age the family moved to Duluth, MN, where Bud attended school. He went on to join the Navy, serving for 5 years during WWII, being honorably discharged as a Chief Petty Officer. On May 14, 1943, Bud married Lois Gotchie, and they have spent nearly 69 years together. Bud retired from Burlington Northern Railroad after 31 years.

Bud is survived by his wife, Lois; daughter, Sharon Hagen of Brainerd; son, Mike (Gloria) of Grand Rapids, John of Brainerd, and Marc of Denton, TX; 10 grandchildren; 29 great-grandchildren; 4 great- great-grandchildren; brother, John of Park Fall, WI; and sisters, Donna Bolander of Duluth, MN, and Joann Shato of Duluth. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother; one sister; and a grandson.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Brenny Funeral Home in Baxter.