Eugene V. Schuler, Sr.
Eugene “Gene” Vivion Schuler, Sr. passed to his eternal reward on January 6, 2022 at the age of 94 years. He was born August 18, 1927 in Sullivan, MO to Nathan J. Schuler Sr. and Daisy (Armistead) Schuler, and joined his older brother, Nathan Jr. He was a lifelong resident of Sullivan, MO.
Eugene attended Sullivan Public Schools, graduating in 1945. He and his brother, Nathan Jr., founded Schuler Brothers Plumbing and Heating in 1946, following in the profession of their father. Eugene was 18 years of age. They operated this business for the next 48 years.
On August 18, 1948, Eugene and Emma Irene Witt were married at Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan, MO. To this union four children were born: Eugene Jr., April, Mary and Juanita. The family delayed supper for Eugene to come home from work many, many nights, and in years to come became aware of how hard he worked to provide for them. He taught by example that they should try to make something of themselves, work hard and be productive, be kind and thankful, and never forget those in their family who were already gone. Most of all, he taught them what he believed about his faith. His children felt blessed because there was never any confusion between what they were taught at church or saw at home. Eugene and Emma lived their lives reflecting what they believed. They were a team.
Eugene was the first cradle roll child recorded at Temple Baptist Church, having attended the charter meeting with his parents at two weeks of age. He was ordained as a deacon in 1949 and actively served for 72 years. His heartfelt calling was visitation of the sick and elderly in homes, nursing homes and hospitals. He continued this service until he was no longer physically able. He was also a member of Gideons International for many years.
Eugene was a skilled baker and was well known for the breads and pies he would make for family, friends and church functions.
Future years brought twelve grandchildren, thirty-five great-grandchildren, and seven great-great-grandchildren.
Eugene is survived by his wife Emma; a son, Eugene Schuler and his wife, Terrill; three daughters: April Lannon and her husband, Michael, Mary Giles and her husband, Michael, and Juanita Schuler and her husband, Robert Carollo. He was preceded in death by his parents, Nathan Sr. and Daisy; and his brother, Nathan Jr.
Funeral Services will be 11 a.m., Saturday, January 15, 2022 at Temple Baptist Church in Sullivan, with Pastors Scott Perry and Josh Wright officiating. Interment will follow in I.O.O.F. Cemetery. Services will be live-streamed via Temple Baptist Church’s website, www.tbcsullivan.com. All family and friends attending the service in person are encouraged to wear face masks and practice social distancing as much as possible.
Visitation was held from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m., Friday, January 14, 2022 at Temple Baptist Church.
Memorial contributions in Eugene’s memory may be made to the Mission funds of either Temple Baptist Church and/or New Testament Baptist Church.
Friends may send online condolences to Eugene’s family at www.eatonfuneralhome.com.
All arrangements are under the care of the Eaton Funeral Home & Cremation Center of Sullivan.