Eugene R. “Gene” Chance

Eugene R. "Gene" Chance, 95 of Tipton died on Monday, June 20, 2016 at Witham Hospital in Lebanon. He was born May 6, 1921 in Indianapolis to George T. & Dorothy L. (Keeler) Chance. On October 15, 1948 he married Mary Coverdill and she preceded him in death on April 23, 1995.

He leaves to cherish his memory one daughter, Cindy Harpe; two grandsons, Jeremy Harpe and partner Steve Buehre and Garret Harpe and wife Ashley; three great-grandchildren, Claire Divina, Graham Robert and Annie Gene Harpe.

Eugene graduated from Tech High School in Indianapolis. He then served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He attended Butler University for his pre-law degree and then went to Indiana University to receive his law degree where he graduated at the top of his class.

Eugene moved to Tipton to begin his law career and practiced for 45 years before retiring. During his career he served as Tipton City Court judge and judge pro-tem. He served on the board for the Tipton County Public Library with a passion to save the old historical library where he had spent many hours. Eugene was a member of the American Legion.

As a young man he was involved with helping the youth of Tipton. He helped to organize the youth club, helped with baseball and was a Boy Scout leader. He loved to fish and play golf. His favorite pastimes were reading books and going to the movies.

After Mary died, Eugene could be seen everyday walking through the cemetery and park. He could also be found at the library or having coffee with friends "solving world problems".

The times Eugene loved the most were the times spent with his family. He enjoyed taking his family on vacations, going out to eat and just being together. He always said that family was the most important thing in life and he lived those words.

He also had a special place in his heart for his two grandsons, three great-grandchildren and dog Lucy. Eugene was so thankful for all the care he received from his caregivers and Miller's Merry Manor. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandpa and great-grandpa. There will never be another Eugene Chance.

A memorial service to honor Eugene is being planned for a later date and the details will be published once made. Young-Nichols Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Memorial contributions in Eugene's honor may be made to the Alzheimers Association, 50 East 91st Street, Suite 100, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46240.