AMATOR, Eugene Lee (Gene)

The White Mountain Independent, Show Low, Arizona ~ 04/18/2006 Eugene Lee "Gene" Amator, 81, of Springerville died Wednesday, April 12, 2006 with his family by his side. He was born April 21, 1924 in Phoenix, he grew up in the Tolleson area and served in the US Navy in WWII. Gene spent most of his working years as a dairy farmer, before moving to the White Mountains where he and his wife became self-employed and where his family has called home ever since. He loved the outdoors; showing horses, hunting and fishing. Gene had a wonderful sense of humor and touched many lives with his amazing spunk and charisma. Most of all, he adored his family. He will truly be missed by all who knew him. Gene is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Betty; two daughters Stephenie "Bridget" (Kelly) Laney and Andrea (Dave) Charley; four grandchildren Brianna Laney, Dalton Charley and Ciara Charley, all of Springerville; and Brent Amator of Calif. He is also survived by sister, Eva Martin of Cashion; brothers Glen (Bonnie) Amator of Goodyear and Bert (Ethel) Amator of Oracle, many nieces and nephews; all of whom he loved very much; and his friends of old and new. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Bert and Alice Amator, son Gordon Amator, sister Ernestine Shahan and brother Fritz Amator. To honor his request, no services will be held - only cherished memories. "He may be gone from our home, but not from our hearts." Burnham Mortuary, Eagar, handled the arrangements.