Eugene "Gene" Welle

Eugene "Gene" A. Welle, a beloved member of the Riverdale and Bismarck communities, died of prolonged heart disease on December 1, 2024, at the age of 70 with family by his side at Missouri Slope, Bismarck, North Dakota. 

Gene was born on April 23, 1954, to Gene William and Elaine (Hanson) Welle in Fargo, North Dakota, Gene moved to Bismarck as a young child and graduated from St. Mary’s High School. He spent over 40 years as the owner and operator of Missouri River Contracting, where he became well-known for his hard work and dedication.

An avid outdoorsman, Gene was passionate about bow hunting, with particular enthusiasm for hunting antelope. His achievements included the 7th largest cougar ever shot with a bow and arrow in British Columbia. He was featured in an article in Professional Bowhunter magazine and proudly recorded over 60 animals as Pope and Young entries, encapsulating his remarkable hunting career. A highlight of his adventures was shooting a Black Sabel in Namibia, Africa. Gene's legacy extends beyond his personal accomplishments, as he shared the thrill of hunting with his four grandsons, together pursuing and achieving over 70 trophy animals in South Africa and Namibia.

Gene was not only a successful businessman and outdoorsman, but also a man of larger-than-life personality. His remarkable talent for bringing laughter into the lives of those around him was marked by a unique ability to say things that were often unfiltered, yet endearing. Memories of his witty remarks will linger, reminding family and friends of the joy he brought into their lives.

Gene is survived by his mother, Elaine; daughter, Jodie; son, Travis (Heather); grandsons, Dalton, Jacksen, Bosten, and Brecken; sisters, Cindy and Carla; and brothers, Robert and Richard. 

He is preceded in death by his father, Gene.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Bismarck Funeral Home. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during the visitation, which will take place on December 12, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, followed by a prayer service and a time of sharing at Bismarck Funeral Home. Visitation will continue one hour prior to the service. 

 Gene Welle will be remembered for his vibrant spirit, boundless love for his craft, and the laughter he brought to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his loved ones and in the memories they cherish.

In lieu of flowers, in memory of Gene, please make memorials to Furry Friends Rockin Rescue at https://furryfriendsrockinrescue.org/donate.