Cecil Eugene (Gene) Christison passed away peacefully at home, on Jan. 17, 2012, at age 86. He was born to Cecil and Esther Christison in Bruneau, Idaho, with one brother, Hilton and five sisters, Ruth, Olive, Opal, DeMerse and Janet.
He left home as a lad and worked as a buckaroo on various ranches in Southern Idaho and Northern Nevada. Gene came to be known as a "good hand", with natural ability as a horseman and roper.
He was drafted into the military and served in the infantry in the Pacific theater of World War II, until he was wounded by shrapnel, earning him a Purple Heart. After the War ended he returned home to Golconda where he met the love of his life, Jody Christison and they married in 1950.
They settled on the Pinson family ranch and soon bought the neighboring Pettit Ranch and began raising a family. They had three children, Vic, Jim and Sue who stayed involved with the historic ranch. Gene developed his love of working cow horses into a lifelong passion, training and showing stock horses all over the state.
He was known for his sense of humor and charisma and he and Jody loved to dance. They attended many local events and supported high school basketball and were a fixture at many horse related shows, until Jody passed away three years ago.
Gene is survived by his three children, two grandchildren, two sisters and extended family. At Gene's request, a private family graveside service will be held with interment next to his wife at the Winnemucca Cemetery.
Those wishing to, can make a donation to a charity of their choice in his memory.
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