Obituary of Eugene Henry Behrens

July 19, 1942 - Alden, Minnesota

October 21, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Eugene (Gene) Behrens, beloved husband of Mary Jane (Jane) Behrens (nee Roehrich), of Calgary, AB, passed away suddenly on Saturday, October 21, 2023, at the age of 81 years.

Gene was born in Alden, Minnesota, USA on July 19, 1942, to Robert Fredrick and Evelyn Elizabeth (Hansen) Behrens. Gene attended Albert Lea High School and upon his graduation, he pursued his education at the University of Minnesota. Gene married Jane on September 4, 1965. They added two children to their family, Tracy and Michael.

Gene and Jane moved several times while following Gene’s career in computers in the oil and gas industry. From Minneapolis, Minnesota to Minot, North Dakota, and then to Canada; first in Winnipeg, MB, and finally settling in Calgary, AB. In 1989, Gene left his computer career. Gene was an avid art collector. Gene and Jane became entrepreneurs as they opened the first of four art galleries and picture framing shops (Avenida Art and Picture Framing Galleries) in Calgary with 50 employees. What started as a passion became a fulfilling family business. Gene retired around 2010.

Gene was so proud of his family. He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He cherished time with family and friends, whether he was fishing/hunting, playing cards, going out for dinner, to the casino, or on vacation. Gene will be remembered for his enormous grin with a dry sense of humour, and he always enjoyed teasing in good fun. He had a wonderful circle of friends both in Calgary and Florida, where he spent winters as a snowbird with Jane.

Gene accomplished much through his life and was particularly proud of his children and grandchildren, and the family art business.

Gene’s most memorable vacations included spring breaks with the family in Florida and fishing in the Queen Charlotte Islands with his fishing buddies.

Besides his loving wife, Jane, Gene is survived by his daughter Tracy Behrens (Amy) of Calgary, AB, Canada, son Michael Behrens (Leslie) of Franklin, Tennessee, USA, and beloved grandchildren, Audrey Behrens and Kyle Behrens of Franklin, Tennessee, USA. Gene is also survived by his siblings, Richard, Sandra, and Larry, as well as many family members and cherished friends. Gene was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Evelyn Behrens.

In keeping with Gene’s wishes, when the time comes, Gene and Jane’s urns will be laid to rest together. They had a wonderful 58 years of life and wish to be together in eternity.

In living memory of Gene Behrens, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 Centre Street North, Calgary, AB T2E 2V6, Telephone: 403-243-8200.