Paul Eugene Daniel, better known as “Gene” by his family and friends, was born March 4, 1932 in Philip, South Dakota to Richard and Wilma (Ernst) Daniel. He attended Old Trail Grade School and later graduated from Philip High School in May 1950. Gene worked on the family ranch until 1953 when he joined the Marine Corps and proudly served until 1956, spending time in Japan and California.

After being honorably discharged he worked in Nevada and California until 1960 when he moved back to South Dakota and went to work on the ranch. He also did trenching and backhoe work as well as working part-time at the sale barn.

On July 9, 1967, he was united in marriage to Doris Jean Okruhlica in Hamilton, Ohio, and to this union two sons were born: Shane and Aaron.

Some of Gene’s favorite hobbies included hunting and fishing. He enjoyed watching car races and wrestling on tv as well as having coffee with his friends. Gene was also a longtime member of the American Legion Post #173 of Philip.

Survivors include his wife Doris of Philip; two sons Shane (Cher) Daniel of Rapid City and Aaron (Lane) Daniel of Pavo, Georgia; five grandchildren: Alec and Quinn Daniel and Braylen, Aisling, and Brenslin Daniel; Aunt Marion Ernst of Watertown; sister-in-law Lois Jacobs of Hamilton, Ohio; brother-in-law Stephen (Linda) Okruhlica of Oak Harbor, Washington; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents and an infant sister at birth.

Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Friday, July 21, at Rush Funeral Home in Philip with Pastor Kathy Chesney officiating.

Interment with military honors will follow at the Masonic Cemetery in Philip.

In lieu of flowers a memorial is established to the Philip American Legion or the charity of your choice.

Cards and memorials may be sent to P.O. Box 36 Philip, SD 57567.