Eugene “Gene” Milo Rice, 79, of rural Bantry, passed away on Tuesday January 30^th at Heart of America Medical Center. He fought a long hard battle with cancer.

Gene was born on May 9, 1938 in Rugby, North Dakota to Frank and Ester (Leckron) Rice. He attended Layton Township School until 8^th Grade. Gene went to work for multiple different farmers and ranchers before he went to work for Walter Otto Construction in the 70’s.  In the late 70’s Gene started farming and ranching with his brother Donald. After Donnie’s death, he continued to farm and ranch with his son Darrell until he was no longer able to comfortably ride in a tractor.

Gene was united in marriage to Mary Salseg on July 19 1980 in Towner. They made their home on the farm in rural Bantry. It wasn’t hard to see that Mary was the love of his life and when she passed away he was devastated. Together they had 3 children Darrell, Jennifer, and Pamela.

Gene enjoyed shooting pool with his friends, dancing and a good whiskey. It was hard for him to sit still after he was no longer able to help on the farm so he would go for drives with his brother David and their trusty pal, Emmy. On November 14^th, 2017, Gene was promoted to Grandpa and anyone who he came across he made sure to tell them as he was so proud of his grandson!

Gene’s loving family includes, his grandson Anders Eugene Rice, his son, Darrell (Heidi) Rice, Towner, daughters Jennifer (Jody Wright) Rice, Minot, Pamela Rice, Towner. Siblings, Gary Rice, Sharon (Jim Jansky), and David Rice all of Towner;  numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was proceeded in death by his loving wife Mary, parents Frank & Ester, brother Donald, and sister Delores Jones.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, February 5, 2018 at New Hope Lutheran Church in Upham with spring burial in the Bloomfield Cemetery, rural Upham.  Pastor Linda Wimmer and Mr. Wally Fretland, officiating.

Visitation will be from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. Sunday at the Anderson Funeral Home in Towner and will continue for one hour prior to the time of services at the church on Monday.