Obituaries : Donald “Gene” Eugene Vandivier

Donald "Gene" Eugene Vandivier, 89, of Belle Plaine, IA passed away April 14, 2024 at his home.

Gene was born on November 11, 1934, to Willis and Mary (Gordon) Vandivier in Belle Plaine. He attended Belle Plaine High School. Enlisting into the U.S. Navy at a young age, Gene spent over 20 years proudly serving his country before retiring in 1972.

Gene married Bonnie Hilton on July 31, 1956 and was blessed with 3 children; upon their separation Gene married Glena Vandivier in 1981. By this marriage, Gene was blessed to adopt 2 more children.

Gene enjoyed fishing many local ponds and rivers, bowling and was an accomplished pool player traveling to Vegas for yearly tournaments. He was a member of the Belle Plaine American Legion, the Masons and Shriners organizations.

He was known for his lighthearted orneriness. A jokester that loved to play pranks on family and friends; keeping them guessing at what he would come up with next.

Gene is survived by his first wife, Bonnie; wife, Glena; son, Calvin Vandivier of Florida; daughters, Theresa Lynn of Alabama and Vicki Teator of Florida; adopted children, Theresa Kristine and Rodney Vandivier of New Mexico; siblings, Margaret Clark of Belle Plaine, Carol Novotny of Cedar Rapids, Kay Hartgrave of Newhall, Ernie Vandivier of AR, and Jim Vandivier of Cedar Rapids; along with several nieces, nephews, family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Eddie, Venice and Gordon "Dale".

Celebration of Life is 11:00 a.m. Saturday, May 4, 2024 at the Belle Plaine American Legion with military honors. Memorials may be directed to Essence of Life Hospice or Belle Plaine Legion in Gene's name. Online condolence can be sent to the family at www.neuhausfuneralservice.com