Eugene Edward Heersink, affectionately known as Gene, left this world on February 14, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on March 14, 1947, in Alamosa, Colorado, to the late Vernon and Ruth (Terpstra) Heersink, Gene was a lifelong resident of his hometown where he also passed away surrounded by the love of his family.

Gene's life was anchored by his strong Christian faith and the love he had for his family. He was a cherished husband to his surviving spouse, Adriana Heersink, and a guiding light to his children, Amy (Lowell) Bolt, Gina (Jim) Rutgers, Vern (Heather) Heersink, and Kris (Carissa) Heersink, all of whom have grown into remarkable individuals, no doubt because of their father's nurturing. The legacy of Gene's kind and patient spirit lives on through his grandchildren: Tara Bolt, Andrew (Yesenia) Bolt, Levi (Nicole) Rutgers, Ethan (Kristen) Rutgers, Zachary Rutgers, Beth (Andrew) Ingram, Gabriel Heersink, Lily Heersink, Rylan Heersink, Arianna Heersink, Weston Heersink, Ashlan Heersink, Caleb Heersink, and Avonlea Heersink, and his seven great-grandchildren, and his brothers Leroy (Sue) Heersink of Michigan, and Roger (Jennie) Heersink of Alamosa along with several nieces and nephews.

Gene built a varied career as a farmer, trucker, and mechanic, working with dedication and passion. His hands shaped not only land and machinery, but also the lives around him. He lived with patience, love, and steady faith as a devoted member of Alamosa Christian Reformed Church, quietly serving others. Whether fishing, tending the farm, or cheering on the Colorado Rockies, he found joy in every moment.

Gene's passions included watching his children and grandchildren engage in sports. He never missed an opportunity to offer his support from the stands, cheering them on with pride and love that was clearly evident to anyone within earshot.

Gene's influence as a family man, dedicated member of his church, and an ardent lover of life's simple pleasures will remain indelible in the hearts of all who knew him. As the sun sets on his earthly journey, we celebrate a life truly well-lived and vow to honor his memory through our actions and the unwavering love we share amongst each other, just as he taught us by example.

The family would like to give sincere thanks to Mallori Gariner, FNP-C, and her nurse, Michelle Burk, for their exceptional care of Gene, as well as to the Lincare staff for providing extra support when it was needed.

There will be a memorial service to honor Gene's life on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 10 a.m. at the Alamosa Christian Reformed Church in Waverly. Rogers Family Mortuary is in care of arrangements. To leave online condolences, tributes and words of comfort for Gene's family please visit www.RogersFunerals.com.