MOUNTLAKE TERRACE, WASH. – Eugene Charles Schardein, formerly of Great Bend, died Feb. 7 at the age of 83 at the ManorCare Health Services facility in Lynnwood, Wash.

Born Jan. 18, 1928, on the family farm southwest of Nickerson, he was the son of Fred G. and Anna (Long) Schardein. He graduated from Nickerson High School in 1946. He was employed in the sales department of Betts Baking Company, for 42 years, retiring in 1992. He married Billie Jean Collins on Aug. 10, 1947, in Nickerson. She passed away on Feb. 25, 1998.

Mr. Schardein served three years in the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of the First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Great Bend, and the Odd Fellows.

Survivors include two sons, Michael Schardein, Bellingham, Wash., and Marc Schardein of Abilene; a daughter, Suzanne Schardein, Warrenton, Va.; three grandchildren; and companion Eloise Sheets. He was preceded in death by two brothers, Ted and Fred; and two sisters, Virginia Graff and Fern Boeka.

A private family memorial service will be held at a later date.