– Maricopa’s lone World War II veteran passes away at 95
– Maricopa mourns the loss of its sole surviving WWII veteran at 95.
Maricopa Mourns the Loss of Gene Wyant, Last Surviving World War II Veteran
Gene Wyant, the only known surviving World War II veteran in Maricopa, passed away peacefully on Monday night. He was 95 years old.
A Storied Career in the U.S. Navy
Gene Wyant had a colorful and storied career in the U.S. Navy, which ultimately led him to Yokohama, Japan, after the U.S. dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, bringing World War II to an end. Wyant served on board the USS South Dakota battleship as the war concluded in August 1945.
Before his Navy service, Wyant served guard duty of the Blue Water Bridge, St. Clair Railroad tunnels, Power Plant, and coaling station for the Great Lakes Ships while stationed at Point Huran Armory. He also had the responsibility of overseeing Nazi prisoners of war held in Canada who were employed by farmers in Michigan. Wyant’s vigilance ensured none of the POWs escaped.
A Life of Adventure and Achievement
Gene Elton Wyant was born on June 1, 1928, in Battle Creek, Michigan, to Gus and Elizabeth D. Wyant. He grew up in various parts of Michigan, including Winn, Mount Pleasant, and Nashville.
After graduating from W.K. Kellogg High School in 1947, Wyant embarked on a 30-year career as a metal model maker in the experimental engineering department at the Oldsmobile plant in Lansing, Michigan. He retired in 1978.
Gene Wyant met his wife, Bonnie J. Dahm, and they were married on September 2, 1949. Together, they built a home and raised their four children: Daniel, Bradley, and twins, Jack and Jill.
Wyant had a deep love for the outdoors and spent countless hours camping, exploring, and boating with his family in Michigan. He was also skilled in woodworking, building structures, repairing cars, hunting, fishing, and bowling. His family fondly remembers him as a teacher who imparted valuable life skills and offered assistance with various building and automotive tasks.
A Legacy of Love and Family
In 2009, Gene Wyant and his wife relocated to Maricopa, Arizona, after living in Florida and Wyoming. They made Maricopa their permanent home.
Gene Wyant is survived by his beloved wife Bonnie, with whom he shared 74 years of marriage, his sons Daniel G. Wyant (Marilyn), Bradley E. Wyant (Deborah), and daughter Jill A. Wyant. He is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Iola Clucky (Wyant), and son Jack A. Wyant.
Farewell and Final Resting Place
Gene Wyant will be laid to rest in the Arizona Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Marana, Arizona. Details of his funeral service and other arrangements will be announced soon.
Maricopa mourns the loss of Gene Wyant, a true hero and the last surviving World War II veteran in the community. His dedication and service to his country will forever be remembered and cherished. May he rest in peace.
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– Maricopa’s only known World War II veteran
– Maricopa’s veteran dies at 95.
