Keith Eugene Phenis, age 72, passed away in Richmond, IN December 12th following a long-term illness. He was born October 26, 1949, in Richmond, IN.
A 1967 graduate of Jefferson High School in New Paris, OH, Gene was a Vietnam veteran and Radarman 3rd Class serving in the Navy 1969-1974. He worked for many years mostly in residential construction and restoration. He had a special gift for stone and tile work. He shared his expertise in teaching building trades at Ivy Tech. Following his “retirement” from the building trades, he was a proud local business owner. A stickler for honesty, Gene was well known for befriending people of all walks of life and for his genuine nature. His generosity was often boundless.
Gene is survived by long time partner Theresa Anderson of Richmond, IN, sons Joseph Phenis and Jason (Diamond) Phenis; grandchildren Kayla Koch, Nina (Chase) Phenis, Jason Eric Phenis, Evelyn Phenis, and Cash Stephens; great-grandchildren Kalli Koch, Vincent Koch, Everleigh Bailey, Amelia Bailey, and Alaya Linville all of Richmond, IN. He also leaves behind extended family and countless friends and colleagues. He is preceded in death by daughter Amy Phenis and siblings Eddie Phenis, Ross Phenis, and Janet Phenis Mexin.
The family welcomes extended family and friends to a calling from 4 PM-7 PM Sunday, December 19th at Stegall-Berheide-Orr Funeral Home, 222 N. 10th St. Richmond, IN. funeral services will be 10:00 A.M. Monday, December 20th at the funeral home with Rev. Martin Holman officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the VFW Kirk-Little Post 1108, 213 S. 8th St. Richmond, IN 47374. Online condolences may be sent to the family via the guestbook at stegallberheideorr.com.