Surrounded by his family, Eugene "Gene" Wilson Elliott, 80, of Idaho Falls, died unexpectedly on Feb. 14, 2010, in Queen Valley, Arizona. He was born August 28, 1929, in Idaho Falls the sixth of 8 children to John B. Elliott Sr. And Ethel Irene Venmon Elliott. He was raised and attended schools in Iona. He graduated from high school in 1947 where he was active in sports. He received a basketball scholarship to Idaho State University. Instead of going to college, Gene enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from 1950-1953. He was in Korea for 13 months. In 1955, he married Joan Call in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho. Their marriage was solemnized in the Temple April 17, 1965. At the time of Gene's passing, they had been married for 55 years. Gene worked for Idaho Steel Products for 35 years. He was a faithful employee who enjoyed his work. He retired in 1991, and he and Joan purchased a home in Queen Valley, Arizona, on a 18-hole golf course. They made many friends on and off the golf course. Gene and Joan were also members of the Jefferson Hills in Rigby. They also enjoyed traveling throughout the United States as well as Canada. Gene was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The church had a M-Men All Church Tournament in Salt Lake where the Iona team won the honor to go. Gene ended up being "the most valuable player" and won a gold watch. Gene loved most all sports, hunting with his brothers and steel head fishing with the boys and in-laws and golf. Gene is survived by his wife, Joan Elliott; sons: Doug (Sherrie) Elliott and Rob Elliott; daughter, Lori Nelson Henry; 3 grandchildren: Scott and Jason Elliott and Elliott Henry; brothers: John B. (Barbara) Elliott Jr. and Wayne (Norma) Elliott; sister, Joyce Jemmett; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers: Andrew J. Elliott and Rodney Elliott; half-sisters: Esther Frahn and Pearl Barnes; brothers-in-law: Dale Jemmett, Ershol Frahn, and Ralph Barnes. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice. Graveside services will be at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, July 24, 2010, at the Iona Cemetery, 4962 E. First St., under the direction of Coltrin Mortuary, 2100 First St., Idaho Falls, Idaho. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.coltrinmortuary.com