Marion ”Gene” Whidden, of Sedro-Woolley, Washington passed away at the age of 90 in his home surrounded by his family September 26, 2024. Gene was born September 14, 1934 to Effie Viola Whidden in Fort Meyers, Florida.
Gene graduated from Sedro-Woolley High School in 1952. He went on to college at Western in Bellingham studying as a history teacher. He enlisted in the Airforce where he met his beautiful bride, Ida in Del City, Texas. He was married to Ida July 25, 1958. After returning home from the service, he got a job at Texaco Refinery where he worked many different jobs, Operator, Steelman and pipefitter. He retired from there at the young age of 55. He was a very loyal husband and father; he was very involved with his children and grandchildren whom he loved very much. Not a day went by that he wasn’t talking to his kids. Gene and Ida traveled the United States and enjoyed camping at their lot in Lyman. Gene did a lot of fishing both on the river and sound. He along with friends and family, built the river scow that he used to fish on the Skagit River where he belonged to the Hub Sportsman club for many years. Gene and Ida also did a lot of hiking and mushroom hunting, clamming and crabbing.
Gene will be missed! He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Ida; son, Marvin (Karen) Whidden of Sedro-Woolley; grandchildren, Daniel, Tiffany, Kayla and Vanessa; daughter, Bonnie (Wade) Ballard, of Stanwood; grandchildren, Brendan and Devan; many great grand kids.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Effie Viola Whidden Peterson and John Marion Whidden.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Please share your memories of Gene and sign the online guest register.
Marvin, Karen and family, I am so sorry for your loss. May you find Peace in your memories. God bless you and your family. Love always Tina Rexroth