Our dearly loved Gene was born on January 8, 1938, in St. James, Missouri, to the late Arthur and Gertrude (Moreland) Hemme. He passed away on Saturday, December 16, 2023. On October 8, 1955, he married the love of his life, Charlet Wynn, at the First Church of God in St. James. To this union, two children were born: a son, Russell Hemme, and a daughter, Jill Hemme. Gene was a chivalrous man and loved doting on Charlet and taking care of her. Gene was a Godly man and loved the Lord throughout his life. He was baptized at the Church of God.

Gene was a lifelong resident of St. James and took pride in his service to the community. Gene worked for the USGS as a building manager for twenty-two and a half years. After retiring in January of 1998, he became a full-time farmer. He worked hard to keep both his yard and farm in immaculate condition, but he was most proud of his famous sweet corn, of which he was always assigned to bring to every family gathering.

He enjoyed driving his tractor, gardening, fishing, and canoeing. He loved tinkering with various treasures in his sheds. He was a sharpshooter and enjoyed shooting guns with his grandchildren. He loved listening to bluegrass music and attending bluegrass festivals and jams. Gene was also a supporter of the Kiwanis. Most of all, he loved spending time with his family and friends. Gene was witty, wise and enjoyed telling a good story. His big, bright smile lit up the room. His laughter was contagious and warmed everyone's hearts. His grandchildren enjoyed Gene's "one-liners".

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Gertrude Hemme, and his brother, John Hemme. Those left to mourn his passing are his wife, Charlet, of 68 years, son Russell Hemme and wife Teresa Garr (St. James, Missouri), daughter Jill (Hemme) Milligan and husband Mike Milligan (Sullivan, Missouri), sister Vera Backman (Jefferson City, Missouri), grandchildren, great-grandchildren, several nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Gene will lie in state at noon on Wednesday, December 20, 2023 at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, MO.

Funeral Service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James with Marcie Lane officiating. Pallbearers will be Mike Lamphere, Zane Garr, Kevin Hemme, Russell Hamme, Pablo Lopez and Luke Curler. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Milligan, Jim Koons, Loretta Peterman, Rick & Jena Huizinga, Jerry & Sue Rosa, Donald Wools, Dr. Jim & Liz Spadaro, Don & Bonnie Davis, Dr. Hugh Schuetz, Beverly Spencer, Paul & Shirley Roberson, Gary & Connie Heavin, Jimmy Backman and Bill & Glenda Pilliard. Burial will be in the family plot at Rolla Cemetery. In lieu of flower arrangements, the family has requested donations to Newburg Church of God. Online condolences at www.jonesfunerals.com

All arrangments are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, MO.