As a veteran of the U.S.

Marine Corp, Eugene served his country from Oct. 1963 to Oct. 1967.

Eugene fought pancreatic cancer like a warrior with such bravery and courage, and he honored the Lord throughout the battle that took his life on July 9, 2026. He was a true inspiration and a strong warrior to the very end.

Eugene loved his family dearly and especially his soul mate, Cynthia Maria Peplinski whom he met at the very young age of 14 picking cherries together. He would tell you how her smile lit up the entire room. He loved to brag about Cynthia’s cooking, knitting projects, and gardening. They married on August 12, 1963, and they started their life together in Oceanside, CA. They returned to the Traverse City area after Gene’s four-year Marine enlistment in time to celebrate the birth of twins, Kimberly Anna Tanis and Kevin Russell Draper in Dec. of 1967. They eagerly parented twins and soon after welcomed Michelle Lynn Miller in July of 1969. It was a busy, full life surrounded by family in Maple City.

Eugene built the home where he raised his family in Maple City as a true labor of love with the help of his family (especially his two fathers) and his best friend, Russell. Leather working, beading, reading, and sharping saw blades were four of the hobbies that he enjoyed immensely.

His dear friends Joe, Steve, Chuck and Jim loved to share the stories of their youth together. They were a source of strength during the last four years. His brother, Donnie and wife Nancy were so wonderful to him the past four years (taking him to appointments, visiting, and bringing him amazing homemade meals. He always spoke highly of his Grandpa and Grandma Mosher and Grandpa and Grandma Draper.

Eugene worked for the U. S. Postal service for his entire career and enjoyed hunting and fishing and entertaining his family when he was not working. His church family was a significant part of his life.

Eugene is survived by his three children : Kimberly (James), Kevin (Lora), and Michelle (Frank) and his grandchildren: Baeley, Kaley (Brandon) Brooke, Brian, and Jacob. He has two great grandchildren : Charlotte and Grayson. He is also survived by two of his three siblings: Donald (Nancy) and Mary Lou. He was preceded in death by his dear wife, Cynthia Marie Draper (Peplinski) , Mary Louise Draper (mother) Russell Draper (father), his Linda Miller (sister) , and Zechariah Tanis ( grandson). Dad waited and trusted in the Lord as the verse in Isaiah 40:31 says. He is flying, and he is no longer weary. Thank God for the Godly life that Eugene led.

A celebration of life will be Sunday August 9, 2026 at Jowett Family Funeral Home in Benzonia, with military honors under the auspices of VFW Cherryland Post 2780 following the service.