Eugene F Kallaus

Eugene “Gene” Francis Kallaus, 82, passed away March 29, 2023 in Burlington, CO. Gene was born August 25, 1940, in Kinsley, KS, to parents, Everett James & Cecilia Katherine (Meyeres) Kallaus. At the age of 5, his family moved to Elkhart, KS where he graduated from Elkart High School in 1959. From 1960 – 1964 Gene served in the United States Navy, during which he was stationed in San Diego, CA and Kingsville, TX. He served on the aircraft carrier USS Kearsarge, which recovered Mercury 7 space flight capsule Sigma 7, returning astronaut Wally Schirra to earth October 3, 1962, and Gordon Cooper in capsule Faith 7 April 29, 1963. On July 21, 1962, he married Connie Schawe in Spearville, KS. She survives. To this union were born six children. Gene & Connie began their life together in San Diego, CA where Gene was stationed in the Navy. From there, they made Spearville, KS, Kingsville, TX, Canyon, TX, Gunnison, CO, Grand Junction, CO and finally, Burlington, CO their home. Never knowing a stranger, he made many friends along the way, some becoming life-long, during his years as a salesman in agricultural products, tools and fasteners. He knew the value of character, respect and admired a good handshake. In his most recent years, neighbors and passersby got a friendly hello and wave from the front porch. Proud of his service in the military, he faithfully put the American flag out each morning. Gene was a proud member and 4th Degree Knight of the Burlington Knights of Columbus. Throughout his life, Gene enjoyed hunting, collecting guns, doing leather work and watching the Colorado Rockies, Denver Broncos and John Wayne movies. In addition to Connie, Gene is survived by their children, Jana Gregory (Cloyde), Bennett, CO, Lisa Lockwood (Troy Angel), Grand Junction, CO, Katie Stassen (David), Grand Junction, CO, Kelly Tasset (Shawn), Spearville, KS, James (Kendra Kelley), Grand Junction, CO and LeAnne Rehor (Harrison), Wray, CO, 17 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, one sister, Connie Ingram (Billy), Quitman, GA, and numerous nieces and nephews. Gene is preceded in death by his parents, sister Juanita, a nephew and two nieces. Funeral services will be held April 3, 2023 at Saint Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Burlington, with burial in Fairview Cemetery in Burlington. Memorials can be made payable to Burlington Knights of Columbus Council 5768 or St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church and dropped off at or mailed to Love Funeral Home, 377 15th Street, Burlington, CO 80807 or St, Catherine of Siena Catholic Church at 450 3rd Street, Burlington, CO 80807.