Gene Austin Hietala

Gene was a gentle person. Whatever card life dealt him, he never complained. He was compassionate and kind, and never spoke negatively about anyone. He was a bronze-star Korean War combat veteran who always remembered the fallen comrades. Gene passed away August 7, 2016 at the age of 81 at the Minneapolis VA Hospital. Predeceased by parents, Albert Hietala and Anna Hietala-Johanson and sister, Helen Cunningham. Survived by siblings, Lila Sanden of Santa Barbara, CA and Allan Hietala of North Oaks, MN; and by many nephews and nieces. Private burial at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are being completed byCaturia-Smidt Funeral Home Cremation ServicesinHastings.