Racine – Eugene J. "Gene" Matson, age 89, passed away peacefully at Becker-Shoop Center on Tuesday, January 5, 2016.

Gene was born in Cloverton, Minnesota on December 2, 1926 to the late James and Cecilia (nee: Milkie) Matson. On December 13, 1947 in St. Patrick's Chapel, he was united in marriage with the love of his life, Betty Mae (nee: Trentadue), who preceded him in death on February 19, 2006.

Gene was employed as a sanitary engineer for Racine Unified School District, retiring in 1989. Among his interests, he enjoyed woodworking, gardening, and Country Western music. Gene played the guitar, harmonica and had a good singing voice. Above all, he loved and cherished spending time with his entire family.

Surviving are his son, Robert (Lyn) Matson; daughter, Jackie Brisko; daughter-in-law, Marianne Matson; grandchildren, Krystl (Josh) Kosmala, Joseph (Emily) Matson, Alex Matson, Jason Matson, Sean (Jenny) Matson, Jeremy (fiancé Rebecca Rooney) Matson and Tracie (Dave Newell) Brisko-Newell; great-grandchildren, Devin, Summer, Caitlyn, Cheyenne, Payton, Kaylee, Jordan & Skyler Matson & Alyah, Ian & Jayla Rooney; sister, Germaine Cobb; sister-in-law, Kay Trentadue; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends – too numerous to mention by name.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, James & Cecilia Matson; wife, Betty Matson; son, Gerald "Jerry" Matson; son-in-law Paul Brisko; Betty's parents, Vincent & Carmella (nee: Gioelli) Trentadue; sisters-in-law, Pal (Lawrence) Neuman, Mary (Guy) Nelson, Joan (Bill) Romantini, Grace Trentadue and Lydia (Al) Hudec; and brothers-in-law, Murry Cobb; Victor, Joe & Vince (Joan) Trentadue.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 at 6:00 pm in Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home.  Visitation will be in the funeral home on Tuesday from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. Private interment will be in West Lawn Memorial Park.

A special note of thanks to Jenny Matson, RN; Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints 3rd Floor 3D nurses; Becker-Shoop Center and to Hospice Alliance for the compassionate care and support given in Gene's time of need. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered!