Protase Eugene Fanning

1931 - 2016 EUGENE, Ore. - Gene (Jeep) Fanning, formerly of Sun City, was born Jan. 25, 1931 in Detroit, Mich. He graduated from St. Theresa High School and apprenticed under several noted chefs in California in preparation for a career of 42 years as a Master Chef. His successful career as a chef included years at Sharon Heights Country Club in Menlo Park, Skywood Chateau in Woodside, and The Dock in Tiburon, all in California. He moved to Sun City, and opened the restaurant at Sunridge Retirement Center and then finished his career at the Palm Brook Country Club in Peoria. He was a long time member of St. Clement of Rome Parish in Sun City and was a volunteer usher and altar server. He was also a 4th degree Knight of Columbus. Gene enjoyed reading, entertaining, swimming and the opera. His sparkling eyes and ready smile will be missed by so many who knew and loved him. Gene moved to Eugene, Ore., in 2013 and resided at Churchill Estates until his death on Dec. 7, 2016. He was preceded in death by his parents, Protase A. and Dorothy Mae Hinnau Fanning; a sister, Catherine Marie Heathfield; and a brother, Gerald A. Fanning. He is survived by his sister, Bernie Clark, of Eugene; 22 nieces and nephews; and numerous grand-nieces and nephews; all of whom loved their Uncle Gene. His family is especially grateful to the staff at Churchill Estates for their care and many kindnesses and to PeaceHealth Hospice of Sacred Heart. Arrangements entrusted to Andreson's and Burial will be at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield, Michigan.