Gene Kneeland

Gene Kneeland, age 58, of Gardner, KS, formerly of Summit, SD, passed away on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at his home.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at Hope Lutheran Church in Summit, SD. Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the church and will continue one hour prior to the service on Wednesday. Pastor Janet Miller will officiate the service and interment will be at Lebanon Lutheran Cemetery in Ortley, SD.

The service will be livestreamed and recorded and will be viewable at the bottom this page.

Gene Robert Kneeland was born on June 2, 1965, in Watertown, SD, to Harvey and Myla (Anderson) Kneeland. He grew up in the Summit, SD, area and graduated from Summit High School with the Class of 1983.

Gene's journey through life took him from Summit, SD, where he resided for two decades, to Los Angeles, CA, and Yuma, AZ, before settling in various locales including Auburn, WA, Overland Park, KS, and Gardner, KS. While living in Washington, Gene earned his master’s degree at the University of Washington. Through his work at Russell Coil, Carrier, Pro Refrigeration, and ATC, Gene made lasting impacts on those around him, showcasing his commitment and passion in every role he held as an Industrial Engineer and successively high supervisory positions with these companies.

A man of faith, Gene was active as a church leader in many churches throughout his life. He was a faithful member of Hope Lutheran Church in Summit, SD, Gloria de Cristo Lutheran Church in Yuma, AZ, and Creator Lutheran Church in Lake Tapps, WA.

In his leisure time, Gene found joy in pursuits such as golf, football, and tending to his beloved classic car. He also completed a full marathon in Chicago, a longtime goal. His dedication to these pastimes reflected his zest for life and the way he embraced every moment with enthusiasm and a warm heart.

Gene leaves behind his children: Jens Kneeland of Everton, AR; Cara Kneeland of San Diego, CA; Casey Kneeland of Yuma, AZ; Demitra and Lucas Kneeland of Overland Park, KS; mother, Myla Kneeland of Summit, SD; brothers: Bruce (Diane) Kneeland of Summit, SD; David Kneeland (Julie Rambow) of Alexandria, MN; and Scott (Laurie) Kneeland of Summit, SD; sister, Tondi Kneeland of Columbus, OH; mothers of his children, Julie Schenck, and Christina Economou; fiancé, Maria Alano Santa Maria; along with many nieces, nephews, and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Harvey Kneeland.