Roger Gene Behrens

Roger "Gene" Behrens, age 79, passed away Sunday March 15, 2026, at Brookdale Senior Living in Ft Walton Beach, Florida. Gene was born on July 11, 1946, at Ellsworth Municipal Hospital in Iowa Falls, Iowa to Clifford and Velma (Blankenship) Behrens. Gene grew up attending school in Williams, Iowa through 11th grade where he then joined his parents in Unionville, Missouri to finish his senior year of high school. On October 1, 1967, he was united in marriage to Lois Darlene Stephens at the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Albia. From this union, 2 children were born, Kevin and Shelia. Gene and Lois shared 54 years of marriage prior to Lois passing in December 2021. Gene worked for John Deere Ottumwa Works, his last position being a Paint Line Operator. During a layoff, he obtained his associate’s degree in accounting and obtained a CDL so he could do truck driving but was ultimately called back to John Deere before pursuing either path. Gene held many other jobs during various layoffs, always ensuring his family was well taken care of. He eventually retired from John Deere on July 1, 2012, after 30+ years of employment. Gene was also very involved as an elder for the Community of Christ Church in Albia and Chariton, until he moved to Florida in February 2022. Gene enjoyed watching sports on TV and attending games, especially the Hawkeyes or any event one of his grandchildren was involved in. He loved western movies and shows, such as Gunsmoke, Bonanza, or anything with John Wayne. He was a faithful man, very dedicated to the church and was always willing to go minister to anyone in need. Gene loved to tease, play jokes, tell stories, and would talk one’s ear off if you sat still. He always wore a smile. He was a coach, co-worker, friend, husband, grandfather, great grandfather, uncle, son, brother, and a beloved father. Although dementia took his mind, he still had heart and love to share. Gene is survived by his children Shelia Behrens and Kevin (Paula) Behrens; 10 grandchildren, Ashlynn Leonard, Shawn Leonard, Randall Behrens, Kodi (Tania) Behrens, Taylor Behrens, Sarah Burman, Joseph DeAngelis, Timothy DeAngelis, Jessica Skarin, and Aaron DeAngelis; 15 great grandchildren, and 5 great- great grandchildren. Gene is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, and good friends. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Clifford and Velma, his brothers Duane and Vernon, and his wife Lois. A Blessing of Remembrance: May the Lord bless you and keep you. May His face shine upon you and give you peace. And may the memories of Gene’s love, laughter, and faith remain a comfort and a light to all who knew him. A Celebration Gathering will be held from 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the American Legion in Albia, with a Eulogy by Jim Trinkle at 3:00 p.m. Memorials have been established to the Welcome Home Soldier Monument in Albia and the Alzheimer’s Association.

Roger Gene Behrens

July 11, 1946 - March 15, 2026