Eugene Leon Ashmus
1928 - 2010

Eugene Leon Ashmus, 82, of Largo, passed away Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, at home surrounded by his family. Eugene was born in Kenosha, Wis., on Aug. 21, 1928. Upon his graduation from high school, he joined the Army as a MP. After serving his country, he came back to Kenosha and joined his father in the conveyor belting business.

He married Shirley E. Payette on Aug. 29, 1959, and they eventually started their own belting business and ran it successfully until his retirement several years ago. He served on the board of directors for various corporations. He was a member of the Kenosha Yacht Club. After his retirement, he moved to Largo, Fla., and joined St. Patrick’s Church. Eugene was a member of the Elks Lodge, Palm Hill Country Club, and the Industrial Belting Association. He was a philanthropist.

Eugene was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; parents, William and Frieda Ashmus; and brother, Robert Ashmus. He was a loving father to Pamela Baldyga (John) of Tarpon Springs, Fla., and Richard J. Payette (Bonnie) of Kenosha, Wis.; six grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; sisters, Joyce Barca of Kenosha, Wis., and Largo, Fla., and Lynn Beck (Donn) of Twin Lakes, Wis., and Largo, Fla.; as well as several nieces and nephews. Mass will be said at St. Patrick’s Church in Largo on Friday, Nov 12, at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Eugene’s name to Suncoast Hospice. Many thanks to his nurses and chaplains who showed him so much love and kindness. Eugene is resting in peace.