On May 29, 2013, the community lost a true American hero and patriot.

Gene Edward Tone, born July 13, 1924, passed away at Sutter Lakeside Hospital with his family by his side.

Gene proudly served his country during World War II, most notably with the 1st Marine Division on Guadalcanal (Operation Watchtower 1942-1943).

After an honorable discharge in 1946, Gene joined the California State Military Reserve until 1964.

Major Tone was unwilling to “hang up” his uniform and remained a devout Marine his entire life. He was an active member of the American Legion Post 194, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and daily breakfast with “Doc” and other fellow Marines.

Gene is survived by his two daughters and their husbands, Melody (Richard) Long and Susan (Darrell) Westphal; grandchildren, Katie Gard, Charlene Thomas, Ed Pepper and James Seymour; great-grandchildren, Michelle, Matt, James, Joey, Allison and Elizabeth Gard, Krystina Brixie, Jake Thomas, Daniel Barrett, Zoey Pepper and Tasiana Seymour; and great-great-grandchild, Gabriel Rodriguez.

A celebration of life with full military honors will be held on Saturday, July 13 – on what would have been his birthday – at 11 a.m. At the American Legion Building, 5005 Second St., Kelseyville, Calif.

Cremation arrangements by Chapel of the Lakes Mortuary, Lakeport.