Marquis Eugene “Gene” Daniel, 98, placed his last bet June 9, 2018 in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.
Gene was born in Skiatook, Oklahoma on February 19, 1920, to parents Pearl “Bronc” Daniel and Nettie Flippin Tohill. Both of his parents were original Headright allottees of the Osage Nation and Gene was proud to be an Osage member. He was raised by his grandparents, John and Sophie (Perrier) Daniel on the 160-acre family farm and attended school in Skiatook. He was of Christian faith.
He married Colleen Wallace, in March 1955. The two created their home in Tulsa and enjoyed a life of vacationing in Hot Springs, Ark., and attending horse races at Oak Lawn Racing and Gaming. They were both dedicated OU football fans. Gene started attending OU games in 1939 and became a season pass holder in 1969. After 36 years of marriage, Colleen passed on November 1, 1991. After his wife’s passing, he lived with his adopted daughter Valerye Zebienski and they continued to enjoy the horse races and OU football games.
Gene was employed by the Beer Distributors for 27 years and retired in 1985 but continued to work for Coors part-time until 1991.
Gene was lively and wise. He could tell you where every family diner or business used to be in Tulsa. He often answered game show questions before the contestants even pushed their buzzers. He enjoyed a good steak and beer for dinner. His Yorkie babies Tootsie and Sophie were his constant companions and he loved listening to Big Band music. When asked what historical times were most prominent to him, he replied “The interstate highways, NASA’s ‘First Man on the Moon’, President Kennedy’s assassination, watching the advancement of healthcare and medical technology and the development of the Internet.”
Gene was preceded by his parents, Pearl and Nettie Daniel; wife Colleen; adopted daughter Valerye Zebienski; and brother Gilmore “Son” Daniel. Gene is survived by two nieces, Yvette Britt and Vernon of Mounds and Yvonne Stevens and Raymond of Bartlesville; one nephew Joe Daniel and Susan of Bartlesville; three step-grandsons Mitch, Joe and Rick Zebienski; one step-granddaughter, Kim Pimental; and many great nieces, and nephews who loved him dearly.
A graveside service was held June 14 at Rose Hill Cemetery of Tulsa under the direction of Moore’s Southlawn Chapel. Pastor Jsue Wagner officiated.
A special thank you to the staff of Brookdale South and Comforting Hands for their loving care and support.
Boomer Sooner!
By
Osage News
Original Publish Date: 2018-06-14 00:00:00
