Obituary of Eugene Keyawa

May 20, 1925 is the day a great man came into the world. Eugene Rhode Keyawa was born in Chico, California to Stanley and Helen Keyawa. He attended Notre Dame Catholic School where he was an alter boy, Boy Scout, played drums and violin in the band, played basketball and baseball, and loved to write poetry. He attended Chico Senior High School where he participated in basketball, football, baseball, track, drama, and various ASB activities. He graduated in 1943. He enlisted in the United States Navy in 1943. He served on the Island of Okinawa and was a member of the Sea Bee's. Upon his return from the Navy, Gene enrolled at Chico State College pursuing a career in drafting. While attending Chico State, Gene participated in pioneer week activities, band, choir, and a quartet. After Chico State, he was asked to become an assistant professor in the drafting department. He declined this opportunity to take a position as a draftsman at the Diamond Match Company under his father, Stanley Keyawa. Gene eventually joined the Lassen Pump and Motorworks Company designing irrigation systems which sparked his interest in farming. Later, Gene become self-employed by venturing into agriculture. He purchased his first 9 acres of land on North Lindo Avenue and loved his new life as a farmer. Eventually he went into residential and commercial spraying, custom harvesting, and orchard management. His growth in the farming industry expanded into the development of Tri-Counties Walnut Hulling in 1981. Later he founded Keyawa Orchards, Inc., and after his retirement continued on as a consultant. Many times Gene was featured in the California Farmer and Western Fruit Grower Magazines for his innovations within the industry which led to the modernization of almond and walnut technologies that are still in use today. Gene was one of the founders of the Radio KPAY Frost Alert Network within the area. Gene was active in several clubs within the community. He was the first President of the Newman Club, President of the School Board for Notre Dame School, President of the 20/30 Club, and a member of the Saturday Night Dance Club. Gene played drums professionally in several local establishments and for community events. He was active in the Knights of Columbus for 38 years where he headed the Color Guard and became a 4th Degree Grand Knight. In 1999 he received the National Catholic Distinguished Graduate Award from Notre Dame School. He also received recognition at the St. John's Catholic Church's 100th year celebration as one of the "Seven Pillars of the Church" for his time and devotion to the Catholic community. On June 16, 1951, Gene married Dorothy Ann Schroer at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Together they had 9 children and lived a very happy life on their ranch on North Lindo Avenue in Chico. He loved boating, fishing, camping, gardening, playing the drums, piano, harmonica, percussions instruments, and dancing. Most of all Gene enjoyed spending all his time with his wife and children. Some of his most treasured moments were spent on his houseboat with Dorothy and the kids. Sunday night barbecues with horseshoes games were also a part of the family traditions. In 1988, Gene mourned the loss of his wife Dorothy, of nearly 37 years. Again, Gene found happiness when he married Rita Marie Meyer on March 12, 1994 at the Newman Center in Chico. They enjoyed traveling and spending time in their beautiful yard. Gene is survived by his wife, Rita and his nine children, 25 grandchildren, and one great-grandson. His five daughters and their spouses include, Carol and Steve Houser, Lynn and Dave Petersen, Cherie and Larry Spini, Chris and Rene Vercruyssen, and Brenda and Kevin Daggett. His four sons and their spouses include, Ron and Kari Keyawa, David and Deanna Keyawa, Ray and Catherine Keyawa, and Paul and Annette Keyawa. He was preceded in death by his parents Stanley and Helen Keyawa, his brother Stan Keyawa, and survived by his siblings, Mary Bloom, Jerry Keyawa, John Keyawa, Joan Kuhn, and Regg Keyawa. A rosary and viewing will be held at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church located at Fourth and Chestnut Street on Thursday, February, 25, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. A mass celebrating Gene's life will be held on Friday, February 26, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. also at St. John's. Donations may be made to Notre Dame Catholic School in care of Brusie Funeral Home.