Gene E. Sorenson

Gene E. Sorenson, 78, of Rothschild, WI, passed away on December 22, 2025, at Weston Memory Care, surrounded by the love of his family and under the care of St. Croix Hospice. He was known for his legendary patience, sense of humor, quick wit, humility and leaves behind a legacy of teaching, hard work, love for family, and cherished memories. 

He was born on February 26, 1947, in Wausau, son of the late Everette and Gladys (Thompson) Sorenson. Gene was a graduate of DC Everest High School, class of 1965. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Navy from 1965 to 1969 as a radio operator on the USS Purdy, USS Charles Roan, and USS Intrepid. He was honored to participate in the Never Forgotten Honor Flight trip.

On August 7, 1971, he married the love of his life, Lou Ann (Zahrt) Sorenson at St. John Lutheran Church, Town of Easton, embarking on a partnership that would last for decades. Gene dedicated 35 years of his professional life to Weyerhauser/Domtar before retiring. Upon retirement, he worked for Jarp Industries part time for several years. 

Gene loved the outdoors. He had a wealth of interests including hunting, fishing, logging, bowling, golfing, and watching NASCAR.  He also had an artistic side, including writing poetry, drawing, and reading, while also dabbling in upholstery, showcasing his diverse talents and passions.  Anything worth doing was worth doing well. 

He is survived by his beloved wife, Lou Ann Sorenson; daughters, Cara (Jason) Abt, Penny (Ryan) Mootz, and Gina (Chris) Woodward; grandchildren, Cole (Xianna) Abt, Bekah (Tristan) Carlson, Zach (fiancée Britt) Mootz, Cade Abt, and Vanessa Woodward; great-granddaughter, Eloise Abt; siblings, Judy Seier, Carla (Pat) Sanders, Patti (Ray) Schmidt, and Brad Sorenson; mother-in-law, Shirley Zahrt; brothers and sisters-in-law, Roger Zahrt, David (Deb) Zahrt, Robyn (Kurt) Gacke, Marlene Sorenson; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was further preceded in death by his father-in-law, George Zahrt; brother, Scott Sorenson; sister-in-law, Roslynn Zahrt; brother-in-law, Russ Seier; and nephew, Wesley Sorenson.

Memorial service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, December 29, 2025, at Mount Olive Lutheran Church, 6205 Alderson St. in Weston, Wisconsin. Rev. Lance Hoelscher will officiate. Military Honors conducted by the American Legion Montgomery-Plant-Dudley Post 10 will take place following the service at the church. Visitation will be from 9:00 A.M. until the time of service on Monday at the church.

The family would like to thank the staff of Weston Memory Care as well as St. Croix Hospice for the care shown to Gene in is final days.

Ascend Funeral Home & Cremation Care of Weston is assisting Gene's family with arrangements. You may leave messages and condolences for his family at ascendweston.org.