Eugene R. "Gene" Schmelzer, Combined Locks, died at the age of 61. He was born in West Union, Iowa on January 28, 1955 to Joseph and Viola (Blong) Schmelzer. Gene served in the U.S. Navy, learning electrical skills and served in the chaplain's office. After his military duty, Gene moved to Appleton, WI where he met Karen Stepniak. Gene and Karen were married in 1993 at Christ the Rock Community Church. Following his military service, Gene studied microcomputers at Fox Valley Technical College. He started his employment at Pierce Manufacturing in 2006 using his electrical skills.

Gene enjoyed reading, antique shops and working with his hands. He often used his skills to help others. He loved the outdoors and camping with Karen and their two sons, Jacob and Matthew. Gene was a man of great faith and enjoyed sharing his faith and love of the Lord with others. He was an active member of Christ the Rock Community Church and People of Praise Christian community.

Gene is survived by his wife, Karen; twin sons, Jacob and Matthew; mother, Viola; brothers: Michael (Ruth), Dan, Art (Rhonda) and Alan Schmelzer; sisters: Jane (Dave) Jansch and Anne (Tom) Keenan; father and mother-in-law: Donald and Dolores Stepniak; and brother-in-law: Gary Stepniak. He is further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Gene was preceded in death by his father, Joseph.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 19, 2016 at CHRIST THE ROCK COMMUNITY CHURCH (W6254 Hwy. 10-114, Menasha) beginning at 9:00 a.m. until time of Funeral at 11:00 a.m. The Rev. David Vande Hey will officiate. Committal will be at Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, a memorial is being established.

The family would like to thank the Fox Valley Metro Police for their assistance. They would also like to express their gratitude to Christ the Rock Community Church members, People of Praise, former Appleton Christian School families, and numerous friends and family who have offered prayers, support and encouragement.