Submitted by: Dan Rich

Eugene J. Ornat

July 30, 1928 - Nov. 16, 2008

South Bend Tribune 11/18/2008

SOUTH BEND - Eugene J. Ornat, 80, passed away on Sunday, Nov. 16, at 2:03 p.m. in Sunset House, Mishawaka. Eugene was born on July 30, 1928, in South Bend, to the late John and Gladys M. (Melerowicz) Ornat. On July 2, 1949, he married Theresa M. Deguc, who preceded him in death on November 28, 1997. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Edward R. Ornat. Geno is survived by his two children, Debra Ornat and Eric (Melissa) Ornat, both of Mishawaka; many nieces and nephews, Edward (Jill) Ornat, Rudy Ornat, Susan Ornat, Baron Ornat, Teddy Deguc, Frances Deguc, Christopher Deguc, David Deguc, Vincent Deguc, Sandra Garrison, Debbie Garrison, Jimmy Garrison, Stanley Garrison, Connie Hemminger, Michael Balasa and Andrew Balasa; and by two great-nephews, Baron Ornat Jr. and Jordan Ornat. Geno retired from A.M. General in 1994. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus. He was a top sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, and served in the Korean War. He was a fan of Notre Dame football, the Chicago Bears and the Chicago Bulls. His hobby and love was to landscape his yard. As a young man, his first love was his trumpet and he was a talented artist.