Eugene "Gene" Ashby, age 79, of Huron, formerly of Woonsocket, SD, passed away on Monday, April 30, 2018 at the SunQuest Healthcare Center in Huron.

His graveside service will be at 11 am Saturday, May 5, 2018 at the St. Martins Cemetery in Huron.

Visitation will be from 1-7 pm on Friday, May 4 at the Welter Funeral Home, Huron, with the family present from 5-7 pm and a prayer service at 7 pm.

Eugene Ashby, the son of Robert and Bertha (Schulte) Ashby, was born on February 20, 1939 in Mitchell, SD.  He grew up and attended schools in Woonsocket, SD. Gene worked for the Armour Meatpacking Plant in Huron for many years before retiring. Gene was also self-employed as a handyman and did handy work for Montgomery Real Estate and managed his own properties. Gene also served in the National Guard for many years.

Eugene met Judith Cantonwine and they were married on December 2, 1961 at St. Martin's Church in Huron, SD where the couple made their home.

Eugene was a member of St. Martin's and Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Huron.  He was a member of the American Motorcycle Association and the NRA for over 40 years. Eugene enjoyed riding his motorcycle, making many trips to the Black Hills, spending time with his family and friends; especially his grandchildren. He was a gifted craftsman, making keychains, knives and money clips from cut coins and other materials.

Grateful for having shared in Eugene's life are his wife, Judy of Huron, SD; two sons: Jeff (Kerri) Ashby of Rapid City, SD and Anthony Ashby of North Carolina; 6 grandchildren, Jordan (Danica) Hoffman, Erin (Nathan) Reginato, Elise Ashby, Emarah Ashby, Epiphany Ashby, and Noah Ashby; 3 great grandchildren, Josiah, Ella, and Emmie Hoffman. Brother, Charles (Teri) Ashby of Wisconsin; sister, Janice Merrick of Sioux Falls, SD; and several nieces and nephews.

Eugene was preceded by his parents; three sisters, Rose, Elizabeth, and Mary.